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Christina B.
Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions School of Health & Rehabilitation Services Physician Assistant Program
Master Advisor
Christina is a family medicine PA who attended the University of California, Berkeley, before graduating from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions’ (MGH IHP) PA program. During her time at MGH IHP, Christina served as a graduate assistant and admissions ambassador, guiding over 100 applicants through the PA school admissions process and helping them craft authentic, compelling applications.
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Christina B.
Title
Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions School of Health & Rehabilitation Services Physician Assistant Program
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Surgery, Women’s Health
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Berkeley
PA School: Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions
Fun Fact
For over five years, Christina has volunteered at Project SCIFI, which promotes students’ scientific passions for higher education and provides teachers with resources for hands-on instruction.
Christina is a family medicine PA who attended the University of California, Berkeley, before graduating from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions’ (MGH IHP) PA program. During her time at MGH IHP, Christina served as a graduate assistant and admissions ambassador, guiding over 100 applicants through the PA school admissions process and helping them craft authentic, compelling applications.
Christina graduated cum laude from the University of California, Berkeley, with a BA in sociology and earned membership in Phi Beta Kappa, The National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Dean’s List. Her education at UC Berkeley refined her ability to understand human behavior, social dynamics, and health disparities—insights that now shape her compassionate approach to both patient care and mentorship.
At MGH IHP, Christina graduated with academic honors and was inducted into the Pi Alpha National Honor Society. She was also awarded a merit scholarship upon admission in recognition of her exceptional academic and professional achievements. As a graduate assistant and admissions ambassador, Christina led informational sessions for applicants, reviewed application strategies, and mentored students navigating the PA school admissions process. Her mentorship extended beyond academic advising; she provided candid, personalized guidance to help students gain confidence and find authenticity in their professional journeys.
In her current role as a nationally-certified family medicine physician assistant at Gold Direct Care, Christina delivers comprehensive primary care within a direct care model that emphasizes accessibility, prevention, and personalized medicine. Her clinical background spans family medicine, internal medicine, dermatology, psychiatry, surgery, and women’s health, and she has trained at world-class institutions including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and UCLA Health. Her diverse clinical experience has prepared her to mentor students from a position of both technical expertise and real-world understanding.
As a counselor, Christina brings a holistic and individualized approach to mentorship. She draws on her experience as both a clinician and an admissions professional to help students identify their strengths, articulate their professional narratives, and confidently navigate the competitive PA school admissions process. Her guidance emphasizes authenticity, empathy, and resilience—values that have shaped her own path in healthcare and that she seeks to instill in every aspiring clinician she works with.
Christina’s passion for mentorship stems from the transformative support she received throughout her own educational and professional journey. She understands that applying to PA or medical programs can feel daunting, and she is devoted to providing the same individualized, empowering guidance that helped her succeed. She works with a select number of students each year, crafting tailored plans that highlight their unique strengths, deepen their professional narrative, and position them for success in a competitive admissions landscape.
Christopher
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
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Christopher
Title
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
MD/PhD student at Northwestern
Education
Undergrad: University of Maryland, College Park
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Fun Fact
I am the king of budget traveling. I have spent time in 25 different countries and hope to add more!
Chris (he/him) is a medical student in the MD/PhD program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He attended the University of Maryland, College Park on a full scholarship where he studied Psychology, Spanish, and Music Performance. After college, he worked as a teacher for three years before making the transition to medical school. Chris completed a yearlong Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Leticia, Colombia, and taught high school chemistry in New York City for two years. Teaching through a pandemic in the largest city in the United States reified the consequences of poor health delivery, and the policies that make these disparities possible. With this in mind, he decided to pursue medical training with an interest health policy and healthcare delivery.
Thus far, Chris has completed research rotations at the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health & Wellbeing, the Gender Pathways Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. He has published work with The Lighthouse Foundation - a Black queer-led justice collective - and he has attended multiple conferences including the 2022 American Medical Education Conference in Orlando, FL, and the 2022 AAMC Rise Leadership Conference in Washington, DC. He also serves as his medical school cohort's Class President, and is active in the process of meeting and recruiting MD and MD/PhD applicants to Feinberg. He is not sure of a speciality post-medical school, but he is currently interested in pulmonology/critical care, emergency medicine, infectious disease, and pediatrics.
Chris is a resident of Uptown, Chicago. In his free time he enjoys traveling, dancing, and cooking.
Cindy van T.
University of Southern California Physician Assistant Program
Master Advisor
Before attending the University of Southern California’s PA program, Cindy graduated from the University of California, Irvine. She has six years of mentorship experience and has served on USC Keck School of Medicine’s PA admissions committee as an interviewer. Her healthcare experience includes research in radiation oncology, clinical work in ophthalmology, pulmonology, dentistry, and pain management, and a medical mission trip to Vietnam.
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Cindy van T.
Title
University of Southern California Physician Assistant Program
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Family Medicine, Ophthalmology, Dermatology
Education
Undergrad: University of California Irvine
PA School: University of Southern California Physician Assistant Program
Fun Fact
Cindy enjoys traveling and staying home with her tuxedo cat named Stormy. Her hobbies include finding new travel destinations, going to the gym to stay healthy, and painting to relax and destress.
Before attending the University of Southern California’s PA program, Cindy graduated from the University of California, Irvine. She has six years of mentorship experience and has served on USC Keck School of Medicine’s PA admissions committee as an interviewer. Her healthcare experience includes research in radiation oncology, clinical work in ophthalmology, pulmonology, dentistry, and pain management, and a medical mission trip to Vietnam.
Cindy's journey in healthcare began at UC Irvine, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, consistently appearing on the Dean's Honor Roll list. Her perseverance extended beyond the classroom; she was actively involved in research within the Department of Radiation Oncology, contributing to the advancement of scientific understanding in cancer treatment. Cindy's dedication to global health was evident through her involvement in a non-profit medical organization that fundraised for heart surgeries, health clinics, and orphanages in Vietnam.
Following graduation, Cindy gained clinical experience across various medical specialties, including ophthalmology, pulmonology, general dentistry, and pain management. She has held positions as an ophthalmic technician at the Astorino and Associate Eye Center and VMR Institute, medical assistant at Lanh Phung MD Inc. and Orange County Lung Center, and dental assistant at Ivy Dental. This diverse exposure not only helped her accrue the necessary hours for PA school applications but also provided her with a comprehensive understanding of different areas of medicine.
Cindy's experience as an interviewer for USC's PA program provides her with an expert perspective. This insider knowledge allows her to offer students a comprehensive understanding of the admissions process from both sides of the table. As a coach, Cindy leverages this experience to provide authentic insights into what admissions committees look for in candidates during interviews. She offers tailored advice on how to effectively present oneself and guides applicants on demonstrating their qualities in a way that resonates with interviewers.
Cindy has been actively mentoring aspiring PA students for over six years. Her mentorship covers a wide range of areas, including completing prerequisite courses, program selection, personal statement editing, and providing vital mental support throughout the rigorous application process. Students she’s worked with have been accepted to numerous PA programs, including the University of Southern California, Bryant University, Duke University, UC Davis, Touro Nevada University, and California Baptist University.
As a counselor, Cindy is known for her holistic approach—she strives to understand students beyond their academic achievements, taking into account their medical experiences, life challenges, and personal journeys. She is invested in helping them present their unique qualities and strengths in their applications. Cindy’s approach to mentoring is effective because she not only helps students identify and showcase their strengths, but she also offers a clear roadmap for success. She is a meticulous essay editor, ensuring every student’s CASPA application is polished and ready for submission
Cindy is known for her outgoing, personable nature, ensuring that students feel comfortable, supported, and heard. Her enthusiasm for guiding students through the application process is palpable, and she is always eager to help students succeed on their journeys to PA school.
Clara
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
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Clara
Title
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Interests and Specialization
DDS Candidate at University of Michigan
Education
Dental School: University of Michigan
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Fun Fact
Clara is an avid rock climber and a rollerblading fanatic!
Clara is a first-year dental student at the University of Michigan. Clara also obtained her Bachelor's degree at the University of Michigan, double majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology and French. She graduated Summa Cum Laude within three years, completing an Honors Thesis Research project with High Honors. During her undergraduate career, Clara was very involved with research and science outreach volunteering.
After obtaining her Bachelor's degree, Clara moved to Bethesda, Maryland, for a two-year fellowship pursuing translational research at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. During this time, she had success applying to dental schools: she received interviews at Michigan, UPenn, UCSF, McGill, Harvard, and UNC, leading to many acceptances and merit scholarship offers.
Outside of work and school, Clara is passionate about expanding access to dental care by getting involved with community dental clinics and patient education. Clara is also continuing her involvement in research by pursuing an independent project on oral squamous cell carcinoma.
As an independent tutor, Clara has helped many pre-dents build their applications, DAT test prep, and essay writing. Clara is excited to help future dental students achieve their dream of acceptance into their schools of choice at Inspira Advantage.
Collin
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
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Collin
Title
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
MD candidate at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Rochester
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Collin loves Marvel movies, picking up very heavy things, and is definitely a mountains-over-beach guy.
Collin earned a Magna Cum Laude BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Rochester before receiving a Master's in Radiation Biology from the University of Oxford. He is currently an MD candidate at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Throughout his academic journey, Collin has held various roles in admissions, worked as a neurology tutor for the preclinical curriculum, and has over 20 research publications and abstracts in the fields of neurology, neurosurgery, and radiology. He also received a highly competitive offer to work in medical consulting at Boston Consulting Group between his third and fourth years of medical school and will be applying to radiology during his fourth year.
Collin is passionate about helping others become the best version of themselves while achieving their dream of becoming a physician. As an admissions coach, he brings his extensive experience and dedication to supporting students in reaching their goals.
Curtis
Ross University School of Medicine
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Curtis
Title
Ross University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
MD candidate at the Ross University School of Medicine
Education
Undergrad:Kent State University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
As an avid sports fan, Curtis loves discussing various sports and is particularly fond of the Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Indians. In his downtime, he enjoys the outdoors, with a particular love for hunting and fishing.
Curtis is currently an MD candidate at the Ross University School of Medicine, having completed his USMLE Step 1 and now progressing through his core rotations in his home state of Ohio. As an accomplished student, Curtis has made the Dean's List Honor Roll for every semester during his initial two years of medical school. Prior to entering medical school, Curtis completed his undergraduate studies at Kent State University, earning a Magna Cum Laude distinction in Exercise Science with a minor in Chemistry.
In line with his academic prowess, Curtis has an established background in tutoring his peers. During his second year at Ross University School of Medicine, he guided first-year students, imparting his knowledge and experience. He also held the position of President for the Neurology Student Interest Group, demonstrating his excellent leadership skills.
Curtis has shown a passion for international medical experiences, having participated in a student doctor Fellowship Program in Merida, Spain. Here, he observed various specialties and surgeries, further expanding his medical knowledge and cultural awareness. Curtis's interest in research was evident when he collaborated with a college professor in a project examining the impact of aerobic exercises on Parkinson's Disease symptoms.
His specialty interests include neurosurgery, neurology, emergency medicine, trauma surgery, and vascular surgery, showcasing a broad spectrum of medical fields. Before his medical journey, Curtis honed his skills as a certified pharmacy technician, and later as a Senior Certified Pharmacy Technician at Walgreens Pharmacy.
Dani S.
Quinnipiac University Physician Assistant Program
Dani is a dedicated physician assistant who attended Quinnipiac University in North Haven, Connecticut, for her PA education after graduating from the University of Central Florida. Currently working in the stroke neurology department, she brings expertise to her role, along with a passion for education and mentoring future PAs.
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Dani S.
Title
Quinnipiac University Physician Assistant Program
Interests and Specialization
Neurology
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
PA School: Quinnipiac University
Fun Fact
In her free time, Dani loves to travel, golf, and try new restaurants.
Dani is a dedicated physician assistant who attended Quinnipiac University in North Haven, Connecticut, for her PA education after graduating from the University of Central Florida. Currently working in the stroke neurology department, she brings expertise to her role, along with a passion for education and mentoring future PAs.
At her current job, Dani's commitment to nurturing the next generation of physician assistants is evident in her willingness to take on pre-PA shadowers and PA students for their clinical rotations. She understands the importance of hands-on experience and is eager to provide aspiring PAs with the opportunity to observe and learn from her firsthand.
Dani's passion for mentoring extends beyond her professional responsibilities, as she is eager to help break down the overwhelming PA application process and guide candidates throughout the entire journey. She recognizes the challenges and complexities involved in pursuing a career as a PA and is dedicated to providing the support and guidance needed to navigate this path successfully.
Dani's approach to mentoring is highly individualized, acknowledging that each candidate is unique and will have a distinct experience. She focuses on identifying and highlighting each student’s strengths while working through their weaknesses, ensuring that they are well-prepared and confident in their abilities.
Depending on where students are in the admissions process, Dani tailors her guidance to their specific needs. For those just starting their journey, she provides counsel on the required and suggested courses and experiences that improve their applications. For those further along in the process, she offers strategies for crafting compelling personal statements, preparing for interviews, and ultimately securing their place in a PA program.
Dani's passion for education and mentoring is deeply rooted in her experiences as a PA student and her desire to contribute to the growth and development of the profession. She understands the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in healthcare and is committed to supporting students every step of the way.
Daniel K.
Harvard Medical School
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Daniel K.
Title
Harvard Medical School
Interests and Specialization
Medical student in the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology program
Education
Undergrad:Cornell University
Medical School:Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Fun Fact
Daniel loves watching new movies and trying new restaurants with his wife. He is open to any and all food recommendations!
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Cornell University, where he graduated with summa cum laude honors. He is currently a medical student in the Health Sciences and Technology program at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
As a first-generation college student, Daniel achieved a 4.0 GPA and scored in the 99th percentile on the MCAT. Following graduation, he pursued research on the development of new CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technologies at Massachusetts General Hospital. Daniel's work has been published in top academic journals and has even been licensed by numerous biotechnology companies, where he serves as a scientific consultant.
With over 20+ peer-reviewed publications and numerous research awards, Daniel is dedicated to identifying the unique strengths of each student and helping them highlight their individual narratives. He has significant experience mentoring students in the medical school admission process, his mentees receiving interviews and acceptances at top institutions. As an admissions coach, Daniel is committed to assisting prospective students and sharing his passion for medicine and research.
Daniela
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
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Daniela
Title
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Resident at Oklahoma City Zoo
Education
Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Veterinary School: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Daniela loves running and hiking with her dogs, Gilderoy Lockhart and Indiana Bones, and has a penchant for collecting houseplants and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Dr. Daniela, a zoological medicine resident at the Oklahoma City Zoo, began her journey by majoring in Biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her passion for animals and wildlife conservation was ignited during her childhood in San Francisco, and further developed through various volunteering and research experiences.
During her time at MIT, Daniela volunteered at the Oakland Zoo, the Boston Science Museum, and a wildlife rehabilitation center. She also conducted research in Israel, exploring the reproductive patterns of the elusive Golden Spiny mouse. After completing her undergraduate studies, Daniela attended UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she was actively involved in several clubs, leadership classes, and mentorship programs.
As an admissions coach, Daniela is enthusiastic about sharing her extensive knowledge of the veterinary field, and guiding prospective veterinarians towards a fulfilling career. Her previous research projects have included investigating copper hepatopathy in sugar gliders, tramadol pharmacokinetics in Galapagos tortoises, causes of mortality in Kirk's dik-diks, and blood gas values in ferrets.
With her diverse experiences and dedication to mentorship, Daniela is excited to help others embark on their journey as veterinarians.
Danielle A.
Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Danielle graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and a minor in sociology before attending the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM). She has extensive mentorship experience, including serving as a TA for organic chemistry, a mentor for undergraduate students pursuing research, and a guide for international students navigating their first year of college in the US.
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Danielle A.
Title
Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Small Animal ER Medicine, Equine Medicine, Exotic Medicine, Necropsy Tech. Pathology, Research, Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Virginia Tech
Veterinary School: Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Danielle plans to complete an Ironman in 2026. She's an avid outdoor runner and sports enthusiast who loves attending EDM festivals and meeting new people.
Danielle graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and a minor in sociology before attending the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM). She has extensive mentorship experience, including serving as a TA for organic chemistry, a mentor for undergraduate students pursuing research, and a guide for international students navigating their first year of college in the US.
During her undergraduate years at Virginia Tech, Danielle demonstrated her passion for research and mentorship. She worked in a laboratory for five years, conducting independent research that led to a publication. Her commitment to leadership and personal growth was evident in her role as the president of the school's Polo Club (horses) and her decision to study biological conservation in Sydney, Australia.
After graduation, Danielle took a gap year to gain valuable experience before applying to vet school. During this time, she worked as an intern at an equine rehabilitation center and as a technician at a small animal emergency clinic. Her perseverance paid off when she was accepted to VMCVM. Danielle continues to demonstrate her strong work ethic and dedication to her field. She works as a necropsy technician at VMCVM, a small animal emergency technician during breaks, and finds time to pursue her passion for running in her free time.
Danielle's greatest strength as a mentor is her ability to see the best in others and her genuine excitement when someone expresses an interest in pursuing veterinary medicine. She takes a structured yet encouraging approach, ensuring students feel supported while navigating the admissions process. With a keen eye for detail, she helps students refine their applications while keeping their big-picture goals in focus. Danielle is committed to making the vet school journey as smooth as possible, helping students shine and stand out as individuals. Her empathy and passion for helping others reach their full potential make her an exceptional guide for aspiring scholars and professionals.
David
Mass General Hospital
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David
Title
Mass General Hospital
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine Resident Physician at Mass General Hospital
Education
Residency: Mass General Hospital
Medical School: Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Fun Fact
One time I almost ran over a python in a Land Rover... It was really close.
Dave is currently an Emergency Medicine physician in his second year of residency at the MGH/Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency. He is passionate about global health, healthcare technology, and entrepreneurship. He also enjoys a good breakfast burrito and getting outside as much as possible.
Before medical school, Dave co-founded an agricultural social enterprise in Uganda, which has improved the incomes of many small-holder farmers and strengthened food security in East Africa. He completed an MD-MBA at Dartmouth, where he was elected to the A.O.A. Honor Society and nominated by his peers to the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
During medical school, Dave evaluated the effectiveness of new vaccine introductions in Rwanda as a Healthcare Policy Fellow at the Rwandan Ministry of Health. He also received the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship Award to develop an after-school mentoring program for at-risk youth. Drawn to the potential for technology to improve access to care and healthcare quality, Dave began consulting for digital health and tech-enabled healthcare delivery companies during his MBA and continues still today. He has also worked in healthcare venture capital and impact investing.
In residency, Dave has continued to pursue his interest in leveraging innovation to improve health. He teaches a workshop on healthcare start-up formation and early-stage fundraising, in addition to researching how machine learning can improve ED operations. He has kept his global health interests alive by serving on the organizing committee of the American College of Emergency Physicians’ (ACEP) International Emergency annual conference and conducting research to improve the integration of humanitarian disaster responses with longer-term development objectives.
Dave has served in both formal and informal advisory roles to medical school applicants, healthcare entrepreneurs, and residency applicants. He enjoys meeting new people bent on improving healthcare and helping them accomplish their goals.
Deniece B.
Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program
Director of Advising
Deniece graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School’s (EVMS) PA program and is a board-certified PA with a clinical foundation in emergency medicine, urgent care, telehealth, and medication-assisted treatment. She served on the EVMS PA program admissions committee, where she reviewed applications and interviewed applicants while directly contributing to the decision-making process.
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Deniece B.
Title
Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, Telehealth, Medication-Assisted Treatment
Education
Undergrad: Old Dominion University
PA School: Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program
Fun Fact
When she's not charting or coaching, Deniece travels, styles, and thrives as a supermom and wife. Whether in the ER, on a call with a student, or exploring a new country, Deniece shows up fully and creates space for others to do the same.
Deniece graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School’s (EVMS) PA program and is a board-certified PA with a clinical foundation in emergency medicine, urgent care, telehealth, and medication-assisted treatment. She served on the EVMS PA program admissions committee, where she reviewed applications and interviewed applicants while directly contributing to the decision-making process.
A proud graduate of Old Dominion University, Deniece graduated with a BS in medical technology with a minor in fashion merchandising. She spent five years working as a certified clinical laboratory scientist specializing in microbiology, building a strong foundation in diagnostics, precision, and patient safety. Her scientific rigor and natural ability to connect with people led her to earn an MPA at EVMS.
Currently practicing in multiple care settings across the U.S., Deniece brings real-world insight and energy to her role as an admissions coach, offering students clarity, connection, and strategy through every stage of the PA school application process. Deniece’s passion for coaching stems from her own journey into the profession, where mentorship made all the difference. Now, she’s paying it forward—helping the next generation of PAs walk boldly into their calling.
Deniece is deeply invested in shaping the future of medicine. A dedicated mentor and role model, she has supported countless aspiring and current PA students, many of whom have completed their programs. She has served on the EVMS admissions committee, led mock interviews, coached personal statement development, and spearheaded outreach to local HBCUs to raise awareness of the PA profession and expand the pipeline of underrepresented providers.
Deniece believes that representation isn’t just a talking point—it’s a mission. She believes in opening doors and holding them wide for others. Her mentorship empowers students from all backgrounds to navigate their path toward healthcare leadership with clarity and confidence.
Drawing on her experience as a practicing PA, Deniece guides pre-PA students through every stage of the application process. With a sharp eye for what makes a candidate stand out, she helps students craft competitive, authentic, and strategic applications.
Known for her warm, supportive approach, Deniece builds strong, personalized connections with every student, creating a coaching experience that’s both encouraging and results-driven. She’ll even make sure each student is the best-dressed at their interview.
She has successfully mentored many applicants, including non-traditional students, career changers, re-applicants, and gap year students, equipping each with tailored tools and insights to elevate their candidacy. Her clinical background, mentorship mindset, and deep understanding of the PA admissions process make her a trusted and invaluable coach for future PAs.
Diamond W.
Widener University School of Nursing
Diamond is a registered nurse currently working in Pennsylvania at BAYADA Home Health Care. She graduated from Widener University with a major in nursing and a minor in Spanish, earning a spot on the Dean's List. Her academic excellence is complemented by professional certifications in ACLS, BLS, stroke, and wound treatment.
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Diamond W.
Title
Widener University School of Nursing
Interests and Specialization
Critical Care, Cardiology
Education
Undergrad: Widener University
Nursing School: Widener University School of Nursing
Fun Fact
Diamond has visited five continents and lived in Spain, where she documented her experiences through a blog. She has collected keychains since she was eight years old and has amassed 265 keychains from around the world.
Diamond is a registered nurse currently working in Pennsylvania at BAYADA Home Health Care. She graduated from Widener University with a major in nursing and a minor in Spanish, earning a spot on the Dean's List. Her academic excellence is complemented by professional certifications in ACLS, BLS, stroke, and wound treatment.
After passing the NCLEX in just 75 questions, Diamond started her nursing career at Penn Medicine, working as a critical care RN. She recently spent nearly two years in Spain supporting teachers in public primary and secondary schools through the Council on International Educational Exchange as an English language and cultural assistant.
Diamond's passion for nursing and mentoring stems from her own experiences as a student. Throughout her nursing studies, she was proactive in seeking help when needed, regularly attending professors' office hours and working with a tutor. This firsthand experience as a tutoring recipient has instilled in her a deep appreciation for personalized guidance, fueling her eagerness to give back by sharing her knowledge with aspiring nurses.
As a counselor, Diamond's strengths lie in her diverse nursing experience and her ability to relate to students' challenges. Her five-year career spans various areas of nursing, including acute care rehab, intensive care unit, wound care consulting, occupational health, school nursing, and travel nursing. This breadth of experience allows her to provide tailored advice to students, helping them navigate the complexities of the nursing profession. She can also adapt quickly, multitask, communicate effectively and efficiently, and work well under pressure or when confronted with unfamiliar situations or circumstances.
Beyond her professional achievements, Diamond is a well-rounded individual with a passion for personal growth and community involvement. Despite commuting all four years of college, she actively participated in campus life, including the wind ensemble, jazz band, and marching band.
As she continues to grow in her nursing career, Diamond remains dedicated to guiding and inspiring the next generation of nurses, helping them navigate their educational journey and prepare for the diverse opportunities within the profession.
Diane Z.
Yale School of Medicine
Diane served as Class President and Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association President at the Yale School of Medicine. She was also the Interventional Radiology Interest Group Leader and served on the Dean's Committee for Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice. During her gap year, she completed anesthesiology research at Stanford University.
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Diane Z.
Title
Yale School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Psychiatry, Hospital Administration
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Diane is super passionate about sloths and has an ambitious dream to one day build a sloth sanctuary in Costa Rica to rescue them and sponsor ecological research.
Diane served as Class President and Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association President at the Yale School of Medicine. She was also the Interventional Radiology Interest Group Leader and served on the Dean's Committee for Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice. During her gap year, she completed anesthesiology research at Stanford University.
Born in Zimbabwe, raised in China, and relocated to California at 10 years old, Diane's diverse background has instilled in her a strong passion for helping others and a unique perspective on the world.
Her academic journey began at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in psychobiology. She was named one of five UCLA Seniors of the Year, recognizing her exceptional academic achievements and commitment to her community. Diane served as the Marketing Director and Mentorship Director of Collaboration in Undergraduate Research Enrichment (CURE) at UCLA During her tenure at UCLA’s Asian Pacific Health Corps, she served as Finance Director, Internal Director, and Programs Director.
After graduating, Diane took a gap year to pursue anesthesiology research at Stanford University. This experience not only deepened her understanding of anesthesiology but also solidified her passion for medical research and education. Her current interests include health equity work, health policy and management, and health technology.
Diane chose to attend Yale School of Medicine for its approach to medical education, which allows students to design and take control of their own education. The Yale System gave her the freedom to pursue both her interests in medicine and hobbies, achieving an ideal work-life balance as a medical student.
As a consultant and mentor, Diane's goal is to help students get into the best school that is suitable for their personal goals and needs. She believes strongly in helping candidates express their individuality in their application and in real life while supporting them on their journey to becoming fantastic physicians.
Diane Z.
Yale School of Medicine
Diane attended the University of California, Los Angeles before matriculating to Yale’s MD/MBA program, where she was recognized as a Forté MBA fellow and a Dean’s Scholar. She has served on the Yale SOM admissions committee and held leadership positions such as Class Co-President on the Medical Student Council, President of the Yale Psychiatry Association, and President of the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association.
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Diane Z.
Title
Yale School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Psychobiology
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Beyond her academic and clinical pursuits, Diane is fluent in English and Mandarin, enjoys creating fabric art, designing jewelry, skiing, and exploring global cuisines.
Diane attended the University of California, Los Angeles before matriculating to Yale’s MD/MBA program, where she was recognized as a Forté MBA fellow and a Dean’s Scholar. She has served on the Yale SOM admissions committee and held leadership positions such as Class Co-President on the Medical Student Council, President of the Yale Psychiatry Association, and President of the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association.
Diane graduated summa cum laude from UCLA with a BS in psychobiology, earning multiple distinctions, including the Senior of the Year. Diane’s academic successes also led to her authorship of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national conferences.
Building on her foundation in clinical research at Stanford University School of Medicine and a consulting role with Boston Consulting Group, Diane brings a multifaceted perspective to healthcare innovation. She supervises junior clinical team members at the HAVEN Free Clinic, where she provides patient-centered care. Through her involvement on Yale’s admissions committee, she actively supports the recruitment and evaluation of applicants, championing initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion. Recognizing each individual’s story, Diane strives to help aspiring students craft compelling narratives, offering end-to-end application support, interview preparation, early candidacy development, and more.
As a Forté MBA Fellow and Dean’s Scholar, Diane exemplifies her drive for excellence and innovation in healthcare management. Her accolades include the Marion E. Hyde Scholarship, Rosalind Elsie Franklin MBA/MD Scholarship, James and Dana Tananbaum Family Scholarship, Chancellor’s Service Award, and Whitcome Undergraduate Research Fellowship.
Diane’s commitment to mentorship is deeply informed by her background in psychology and psychiatry. She integrates a mix of structured guidance and flexible, encouraging support, ensuring that students not only achieve their goals but also grow personally and professionally. Drawing on her clinical knowledge and leadership experience, she helps applicants spotlight the qualities that make them stand out.
Diego
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
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Diego
Title
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
MD candidate at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Creighton University
Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Diego loves exploring new coffee shops
Diego is a medical student at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Scottsdale, Arizona. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience from Creighton University and minored in Economics.
During undergrad, he served as an organic chemistry tutor for two years. He was also an active volunteer with multiple organizations, including a neonatal intensive care unit and a women's health center. He published five papers in the field of medical genetics, focusing on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and traveled to the Dominican Republic twice to train local physicians on this diagnosis.
His current research interests include transplant surgery, breast reconstruction, and craniofacial disorders. Diego is passionate about mentoring Inspira students and seeing them succeed in the medical school application process.
Dorothy W.
California State University, Northridge
Dorothy has mentored students for over nine years and is an accomplished perioperative RN working at Children's Hospital Los Angeles and the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Fluent in Mandarin and Taiwanese, she brings a multicultural perspective to her roles teaching skills labs, precepting new nurses, and serving as social media chair for the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Los Angeles Chapter.
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Dorothy W.
Title
California State University, Northridge
Interests and Specialization
OR, Peds
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Nursing School: California State University, Northridge
Fun Fact
Dorothy is certified in translating for Mandarin in the healthcare setting. She also enjoys playing Animal Crossing and owns an Animal Crossing scrub cap.
Dorothy has mentored students for over nine years and is an accomplished perioperative RN working at Children's Hospital Los Angeles and the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Fluent in Mandarin and Taiwanese, she brings a multicultural perspective to her roles teaching skills labs, precepting new nurses, and serving as social media chair for the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Los Angeles Chapter.
Dorothy's academic journey began at Taipei American School in Taipei, Taiwan, where she completed her education from kindergarten through high school. She then pursued her passion for music at the University of California, Los Angeles, earning a BA in violin performance. However, inspired by a desire to make a more direct impact on people's lives, Dorothy made the bold decision to change careers and pursue nursing.
Dorothy graduated cum laude from California State University, Northridge with a BS in nursing. She received her initial training at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica, laying a strong foundation for her nursing career.
Throughout her career, Dorothy has shown versatility and dedication. She worked at Garfield Medical Center in Monterey Park, where she voluntarily floated to the COVID unit during the pandemic. Her passion for education and mentorship is evident in her work teaching skills labs and precepting new graduate and transition RN residents at her hospital.
She actively contributes to the nursing community through her involvement with AORN Los Angeles Chapter, where she serves as the social media/marketing committee chair. This role reflects her interest in integrating technology with healthcare, a skill that is increasingly valuable in today's medical landscape.
Dorothy is driven by success, which she uses as her motivation for helping students achieve their goals. Her personal experience navigating the process of taking nursing prerequisites and applying to numerous nursing schools across the nation has given her insights that she now uses to mentor students interested in pursuing nursing. This firsthand knowledge of the application process, combined with her professional experience, makes her an exceptional guide for aspiring nurses.
Dr Shannon D.
Howard University College of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Dash is a general dentist with more than a decade of experience. She graduated with a BS in biology from Hampton University before attending the Howard University College of Dentistry, where she has served as an admissions committee member for 13 years. She completed her general practice residency at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center, where she gained advanced training in comprehensive and emergency care.
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Dr Shannon D.
Title
Howard University College of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: Hampton University
Dental School: Howard University College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Dash enjoys traveling to tropical destinations with her husband and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Dr. Dash is a general dentist with more than a decade of experience. She graduated with a BS in biology from Hampton University before attending the Howard University College of Dentistry, where she has served as an admissions committee member for 13 years. She completed her general practice residency at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center, where she gained advanced training in comprehensive and emergency care.
As a dentist, Dr. Dash has experience working in private practice, corporate, Medicaid-based, and emergency dental settings. A longtime member of Howard University College of Dentistry’s admissions committee, Dr. Dash has conducted numerous interviews and developed a keen understanding of what helps applicants stand out. For over a decade, she has mentored students at every stage, from high schoolers exploring dentistry to new graduates embarking on their professional journeys.
Along her journey toward becoming a dentist, Dr. Dash was guided by several impactful mentors who inspired her to pay it forward by helping others achieve their dreams. She understands that the road to and through dental school is not easy, and she strives to be the kind of mentor she once needed. Students Dr. Dash has coached have been accepted to dental schools, including Howard University College of Dentistry, Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Dash combines her clinical expertise, mentorship experience, and compassionate coaching style to help applicants craft authentic, compelling applications that highlight their strengths and stories. She approaches coaching with empathy, structure, and encouragement, believing that every applicant’s journey is uniquely valuable.
Dr. Aanika W.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
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Dr. Aanika W.
Title
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Hematology
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Warner learned how to scuba dive in 2019! Since then, she's explored the seas of Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Turks and Caicos. Her favorite dive was through a field of moon jellyfish. In her opinion, scuba diving is the closest feeling to flying there is.
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
Dr. Warner graduated from Johns Hopkins with an MD and MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics before becoming a resident physician at the Johns Hopkins Osler Internal Medicine Training Program. Dr. Warner has sat on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee and has years of experience as a pre-medical advisor working with students who have been accepted to top medical schools such as the UCSF School of Medicine, UVA School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, among others.
Dr. Warner obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, where her fascination with the medical field flourished. She worked in a breast cancer research lab for four years, studying the protein interactions of triple-negative breast cancer. Her work in the lab led to her receiving funding to participate in a research exchange program in Sweden.
Her research experiences solidified her interest in oncology and led her to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. During medical school, she won multiple scholarships, including the AMWA Carter Global Health Fellowship and the PEO International Scholar Award. After her third year of medical school, Aanika stepped away to pursue a fully funded MPH degree at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Here she was able to learn advanced statistical techniques for clinical research. She currently serves on the Procedures Working Group Committee at Johns Hopkins to increase procedure training for residents in the Osler Internal Medicine Residency.
Dr. Warner's passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school. She understands the stress and complexity of the process and wishes she had had someone knowledgeable to guide her through it. This experience, combined with her love for teaching, drives her commitment to helping future doctors achieve their goals.
As a consultant since her fourth year of medical school, Dr. Warner has worked with pre-medical students seeking guidance during their college years, as well as those navigating the medical school application process. She has also been involved in one-on-one advising and interview preparation and her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications.
Dr. Warner's approach to counseling is thorough, structured, and efficient. She maintains close contact with students during the application process, ensuring they have a partner to lean on during this stressful time. Her sessions are productive and tailored to each student's needs, covering a variety of topics. After each session, she provides a brief summary email, allowing students to review the discussion and follow up with any additional questions.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how admissions committees operate and review applicants. Dr. Warner works quickly while ensuring each student receives dedicated time on their written work to present their best selves. Her recent success stories include helping a student create an excellent update letter that resulted in their acceptance off the waitlist at UCSF.
Apart from her consulting work, Dr. Warner has continued to explore her interest in oncology and present at the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She was recently the keynote speaker at the Undergraduate Biology Research Program at the University of Arizona.
Dr. Aaron M.
Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Mackley is the practice owner of Mackley Mobile Veterinary Services, offering care to canines, felines, and equines in Montana. He leverages over 11 years of veterinary experience to his role as a mentor, having trained numerous veterinary students and new graduates throughout his career.
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Dr. Aaron M.
Title
Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Mixed Animal General Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Montana State University–Bozeman
Veterinary School: Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
In his free time, Dr. Mackley loves to snowmobile, ski, golf, and caddy for high-level golf tournaments.
Dr. Mackley is the practice owner of Mackley Mobile Veterinary Services, offering care to canines, felines, and equines in Montana. He leverages over 11 years of veterinary experience to his role as a mentor, having trained numerous veterinary students and new graduates throughout his career.
Dr. Mackley attended Montana State University–Bozeman, where he earned a BS in animal sciences. His passion for veterinary medicine began while working for a hall-of-fame thoroughbred racehorse trainer during his undergraduate studies. This experience, which included working with Kentucky Derby runners at prestigious racetracks, laid the foundation for his future career.
During veterinary school at OSU, Dr. Mackley's leadership skills shone through his roles as a Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) delegate and President of the Student Chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. After graduating from OSU, he began his career at a mixed animal, rural veterinary practice in Montana.
Dr. Mackely spent more than nine years providing general medicine and surgery for horses, cattle, cats, and dogs and has provided relief veterinary services for multiple veterinary hospitals in Montana and Hawaii. He now owns a practice, providing veterinary services to the smaller towns of Montana.
Dr. Mackley's greatest strength as a counselor lies in his broad and multifaceted experience across various species and practice settings.. His extensive experience allows him to offer nuanced, practical advice to students considering different career paths within the field.
Throughout his career, Dr. Mackley has cultivated a broad network within the veterinary medicine profession, a valuable asset he brings to his mentoring role. He looks forward to sharing his insights and connections with students and helping them navigate the complexities of veterinary education and career development. His honest, to-the-point approach and vast practical knowledge make him an excellent resource for aspiring veterinarians navigating their educational and career paths.
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Maya G.
University of Michigan Medical School
Master Tutor
Before attending the University of Michigan Medical School, Maya graduated from Babson College with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and later completed a post-baccalaureate premedical program at Goucher College with a 4.0 GPA. She went on to achieve a perfect 528 on the MCAT, and is passionate about helping students from all backgrounds achieve success.
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Maya G.
University of Michigan Medical School
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Maya’s strength lies in teaching the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section, where she leverages her background as a writing tutor to help students achieve breakthroughs in one of the MCAT’s toughest areas.
Education
Undergrad: Babson College
Graduate School: Goucher College
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Fun Fact
Before attending the University of Michigan Medical School, Maya graduated from Babson College with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and later completed a post-baccalaureate premedical program at Goucher College with a 4.0 GPA. She went on to achieve a perfect 528 on the MCAT, and is passionate about helping students from all backgrounds achieve success.
During her time at Babson College, Maya worked as a writing tutor, helping peers develop clarity and precision in their communication. Maya’s background includes three years in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, followed by hands-on clinical work at Tufts Medical Center. These diverse professional experiences enable her to connect with students pursuing medicine through both traditional and non-traditional paths. Her transition into medicine exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the power of structured learning—qualities she brings into her tutoring.
With a strong foundation in peer education and clinical experience, Maya brings both expertise and empathy to her role as an MCAT tutor. She is particularly skilled in guiding students through the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section, one of the most difficult areas of the exam in which to improve.
Drawing on her experience as a writing tutor at Babson College, Maya helps students refine their reasoning, analytical precision, and ability to synthesize complex passages. She integrates evidence-based study strategies, personalized learning plans, and test-taking insights to help students maximize their potential. Maya is especially attentive to the emotional challenges of the MCAT, providing encouragement while setting ambitious yet attainable goals. Her goal is to help each student develop confidence, master content, and recognize test-taking patterns, empowering them to maximize their MCAT scores on test day.
Melani S.
University of Cincinnati College of Nursing
Melani is a seasoned nurse educator with over 30 years of experience in nursing academia. As a former Dean of Nursing, she has extensive knowledge of the nursing application process and has helped countless students prepare for the NCLEX, consistently achieving a 100% pass rate for four years.
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Melani S.
University of Cincinnati College of Nursing
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Melani personalizes each student's plan for success. She also has a 100% pass rate on NCLEX. When working with nursing students to increase test scores, students may see a 10% - 20% increase in test scores after just one session.
Education
Undergrad: University of Cincinnati
Nursing School:Northern Kentucky University
Fun Fact
Melani has two huskies and a rescue cat. In her spare time, she enjoys coupon cutting, traveling, and playing BINGO!
Melani is a seasoned nurse educator with over 30 years of experience in nursing academia. As a former Dean of Nursing, she has extensive knowledge of the nursing application process and has helped countless students prepare for the NCLEX, consistently achieving a 100% pass rate for four years.
Melani's impressive career in nursing education spans over three decades. Her extensive experience in nursing academia has equipped her with a deep understanding of the application process for nursing programs, making her an invaluable resource for aspiring nurses. As a former Dean of Nursing, Melani was responsible for creating and overseeing the application process, giving her expert insights into what it takes to be a successful nursing candidate.
Melani's passion for tutoring stems from her desire to help students achieve their full potential in the nursing field. She recognizes that each student has unique strengths and weaknesses, and she tailors her approach to meet their individual needs. By guiding students through a personal assessment, Melani helps them identify areas for improvement and creates a customized plan to help them reach their goals. Her dedication to student success is evident in her impressive track record, with a 100% NCLEX pass rate for the last four years.
As a tutor, Melani focuses on teaching students effective test-taking strategies and helping them develop the critical thinking skills necessary to answer nursing questions confidently. She also emphasizes the importance of structure and organization in the learning process, ensuring that students have a solid foundation for success. Melani's approach is both supportive and challenging, pushing students to reach their full potential while providing the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed.
Melani's dedication to her students' success has earned her recognition as "Best of Tutors" for three years, and her glowing reviews can be found on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Melanie A.
McGill University School of Medicine
Melanie earned her Bachelor’s in neuroscience from Concordia University before attending the McGill University School of Medicine in Montreal. She is passionate about Casper tutoring and students who have worked with her have consistently scored in the top 25% with a near-perfect success rate in gaining acceptance to some of the most competitive healthcare programs.
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Melanie A.
McGill University School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Every student who has worked with Melanie has scored in Casper’s fourth quartile.
Education
Undergrad:Concordia University
Medical School:McGill University
Fun Fact
In her spare time, Melanie enjoys cooking foreign dishes from around the world.
Melanie earned her Bachelor’s in neuroscience from Concordia University before attending the McGill University School of Medicine in Montreal. She is passionate about Casper tutoring and students who have worked with her have consistently scored in the top 25% with a near-perfect success rate in gaining acceptance to some of the most competitive healthcare programs.
Beyond her academic and research pursuits, Melanie has extensive experience in teaching and tutoring. She has served as a TA in various statistics courses at the university level, demonstrating her ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and support student learning.
Melanie excelled academically throughout college and medical school, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Her dedication to academic excellence was further recognized through the scholarship awards she received at Concordia and McGill.
In addition to her academic achievements, Melanie has gained valuable practical experience through her work as a vaccinator throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This role allowed her to contribute to the collective effort in combating the pandemic while also developing critical skills in healthcare delivery.
Melanie's commitment to research and advancing scientific knowledge is evident in her honors thesis, which resulted in the publication of an article about mental health during the pandemic. She has also presented her research findings through numerous poster presentations, further demonstrating her expertise and passion for her field.
Melanie's true passion lies in CASPer tutoring, an area where she has achieved remarkable success. Students who have worked with her have consistently scored in the fourth quartile, with a nearly perfect success rate in gaining acceptance to some of the most competitive schools and programs of their choice. Melanie's expertise in CASPer tutoring has proven invaluable for aspiring students, helping them navigate the challenging admissions process and present their best selves.
Merna L.
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Master Tutor
Merna earned a BS in biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, followed by a master’s degree at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a post-baccalaureate program at the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry before pursuing a PharmD and Master of health science in clinical research administration at the Fairleigh Dickinson School of Pharmacy. With five years of tutoring experience, Merna has helped students raise their DAT scores by an average of six points.
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Merna L.
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
With five years of tutoring experience, Merna has helped students achieve remarkable results and gain admission to dental school.
Education
Undergrad: Fairleigh Dickinson University
Graduate School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dental School: Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Merna finds joy in cooking and baking for her family. On weekends, she indulges in her creative passions, such as painting and playing the guitar. She also enjoys reading to expand her knowledge and perspective.
Merna earned a BS in biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, followed by a master’s degree at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a post-baccalaureate program at the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry before pursuing a PharmD and Master of health science in clinical research administration at the Fairleigh Dickinson School of Pharmacy. With five years of tutoring experience, Merna has helped students raise their DAT scores by an average of six points.
Merna is a passionate and accomplished healthcare professional with a diverse academic background and a strong commitment to patient care, education, and research. At Fairleigh Dickinson University, she had the opportunity to publish her research in collaboration with the Waksman Institute at Rutgers University, focusing on duckweed (Landoltia punctata) cDNA and mRNA sequencing. During her gap year, Merna's dedication to serving others led her to join a UK-based charity aimed at providing dental aid in high-need areas around the world. As part of this initiative, she participated in a mission trip to underserved communities in Egypt, where she worked tirelessly to provide dental care to those in need. Additionally, Merna secured a position as a research assistant at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, further expanding her knowledge and skills in the field of dentistry.
Merna’s outstanding academic achievements have been recognized through two prestigious scholarships, underscoring her dedication to excellence and lifelong learning. In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, she is an active member of Mobile Smiles Dentistry, a non-profit organization committed to providing dental care to underserved communities. Through this initiative, she has contributed to improving oral healthcare access and promoting wellness among vulnerable populations.
Beyond her professional experience, Merna has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to education. Since high school, she has actively tutored newcomers at her church, helping them navigate their academic journeys. She continued tutoring throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, specializing in subjects such as biology, chemistry, and healthcare sciences. Her dedication to mentoring and empowering students highlights her belief in the power of education to transform lives. Students Merna has tutored have been accepted to dental schools at Temple University, Touro University, and NYU.
As a tutor, Merna is known for her support and encouragement. She creates a positive and nurturing learning environment that motivates students to push beyond their limits and strive for excellence. Whether it's providing comprehensive study materials or offering valuable insights, Merna goes above and beyond to ensure student success.
Mia S.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Before matriculating at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Mia graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a BS in brain and cognitive science and mathematics, with a minor in biology. Mia has six years of tutoring experience, and students she has taught have increased their MCAT scores by an average of 10 points.
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Mia S.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Mia achieved perfect scores in the MCAT’s Bio/BioChem and Chem/Phys sections.
Education
Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Medical School: Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University
Fun Fact
Mia is an accomplished athlete who played NCAA Division III soccer at MIT and placed second in a USA Powerlifting meet. She enjoys coaching strength training, hiking, listening to medical podcasts, and trying new recipes.
Before matriculating at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Mia graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a BS in brain and cognitive science and mathematics, with a minor in biology. Mia has six years of tutoring experience, and students she has taught have increased their MCAT scores by an average of 10 points.
At MIT, Mia maintained a perfect GPA and earned the department’s Outstanding Undergraduate Academic Award. She was also inducted into Phi Beta Kappa for her academic excellence. Before entering medical school, Mia was a research assistant at the Feinberg School of Medicine, where she contributed to neurobiology studies involving mouse brain sectioning, genotyping, and neurosurgical support. Her background also includes work in youth sports and mentoring as an assistant soccer coach, and she was named an All-American Defender and Conference Champion as a high school team captain.
Mia’s dedication to service and teaching is reflected in her diverse and hands-on experiences. As an EMT with 1,700+ hours of volunteer service, she served as Director of Professional Development for MIT EMS, where she trained and certified over 50 EMTs and CPR providers. She also served as a physics grader and MCAT tutor, helping students gain a deeper understanding of test content and significantly improve their performance.
As an MCAT tutor, Mia draws upon her extensive academic, research, and clinical experiences to help students excel on the exam. She specializes in working with students from diverse academic backgrounds. Students she has tutored have achieved 515+ MCAT scores, improving their scores by an average of 10 points.
Mia is deeply passionate about tutoring and coaching because she has benefited from the guidance of phenomenal mentors herself. She understands how overwhelming the application process can be and works to create a supportive, low-pressure environment where students feel heard, empowered, and inspired as they work through their MCAT prep plans.
Mia is excited to work with future healthcare professionals and looks forward to helping applicants take the next step toward higher MCAT scores.
Michael A.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Tutoring
Before attending the University of Michigan Medical School as a Dean’s Scholar, the school’s most prestigious scholarship, Michael graduated from Muhlenberg College with a BS in chemistry and Russian studies. Michael has over eight years of tutoring experience and has helped students achieve 515+ scores, with an average MCAT score increase of 20 points.
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Michael A.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Michael’s average MCAT score increase among the students he’s tutored is 20 points.
Education
Undergrad: Muhlenberg College
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Graduate School: University of Oxford
Fun Fact
Michael enjoys writing, sports, and exploring international affairs. His creative writing has been featured in Auxocardia and Arrival & Departure, where he won a Creative Writing Prize for reflective storytelling.
Before attending the University of Michigan Medical School as a Dean’s Scholar, the school’s most prestigious scholarship, Michael graduated from Muhlenberg College with a BS in chemistry and Russian studies. Michael has over eight years of tutoring experience and has helped students achieve 515+ scores, with an average MCAT score increase of 20 points.
Michael’s passion for teaching began during his undergraduate education at Muhlenberg College, where he graduated as valedictorian and Phi Beta Kappa inductee with a 4.0 GPA. He received numerous awards for his academic distinction and leadership, including the Presidential Scholarship, Muhlenberg Scholarship, and being named to the Dean’s List. Michael also played varsity football and received the Muhlenberg Football Scholar Athlete of the Year Award. As a general chemistry teaching assistant, he led workshops, designed lessons, and helped students master challenging concepts. He went on to tutor students in organic chemistry and biology, developing a reputation for his clear explanations and patient, encouraging approach.
Before and during medical school, Michael worked as an MCAT tutor, where he created individualized study plans and guided students through tailored content review sessions. His students consistently achieved their goal scores—many surpassing their own expectations—thanks to his structured approach and ability to make complex material intuitive and engaging. He is also a Rhodes Scholarship Finalist and member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, distinctions that reflect his dedication to both intellectual excellence and mentorship.
At the University of Michigan Medical School, Michael continues to combine his scientific curiosity with a passion for mentorship. He has conducted research in spine and pediatric neurosurgery, with several first-author publications and national conference presentations. His work spans topics from complex spinal reconstruction to pediatric neurosurgical disparities. Michael also investigates the ethical dimensions of global health, with recent work analyzing antibiotic overuse in Syria. He is currently taking a leave of absence from medical school to pursue a Master's of Philosophy in international relations at the University of Oxford.
Beyond research, Michael is deeply committed to mentorship and advocacy. He serves as Co-Director of the Physicians for Human Rights Student Advisory Board, leading asylum evaluations for displaced individuals, and as a mentor in the Athletes in Medicine and Doctors of Tomorrow programs, where he supports undergraduates and high school students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing careers in healthcare, providing academic guidance and application coaching.
As a tutor, Michael emphasizes active learning and personalized strategy. He believes every student learns differently, and his teaching style focuses on building confidence, reinforcing core principles, and helping students think critically under pressure.
Michael D.
Rice University
Master Tutor
Michael graduated from Rice University with a BS in chemistry, specializing in organic chemistry. He also served as the Head Fellow for his residential college’s Academic Fellows Society, a peer-tutoring organization. He has four years of tutoring experience and has helped dozens of students succeed academically.
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Michael D.
Rice University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Michael excels at tutoring chemistry and cellular biology.
Education
Undergrad: Rice University
Fun Fact
Michael once drove a perimeter around the state of Wyoming, ultimately ending up in Yellowstone. During his free time, Michael loves playing tennis, ultimate frisbee, pop piano, and watching horror movies with friends.
Michael graduated from Rice University with a BS in chemistry, specializing in organic chemistry. He also served as the Head Fellow for his residential college’s Academic Fellows Society, a peer-tutoring organization. He has four years of tutoring experience and has helped dozens of students succeed academically.
Michael is currently performing research on bleeding disorders in both an experimental biochemical laboratory as well as clinical studies among the patient population. His tutoring style is structured, friendly, hands-on, and encouraging.
Michael’s passion for tutoring began at an early age—he previously tutored students in the SAT and ACT before college. In addition to his role as Head Fellow at Rice University, Michael also served as an organic chemistry and biochemistry fellow. In these roles, he provided academic assistance to students through review sessions, office hours, and personalized tutoring.
As a chemistry major, Michael excels at tutoring general chemistry, biochemistry, organic chemistry, and cell biology. He encourages students to ask him any questions they have about the MCAT. He looks forward to helping others achieve their target scores.
Michael V.
Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
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Michael V.
Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical College Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Pharmacy School:University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy
Medical School:Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Michael has an impressive backlog of games on Steam, and he enjoys building custom computers in his free time.
Michael is a distinguished tutor who started his academic journey at the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy, where he graduated top of his class with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Later, he moved to Brown University to pursue his MD degree, where he received the merit-based Distinguished Student Scholarship.
Michael is a voracious learner with a deep-rooted passion for teaching. His unique academic background, involving both pharmacy and medicine, enables him to provide a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to MCAT tutoring. With an impressive MCAT score in the top 1%, he particularly excels in the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems and the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior sections.
His tutoring philosophy is centered around simplifying complex information, tailoring the study plan to accommodate each learner's individual needs, and maintaining a balanced study-life routine. Michael leverages his academic prowess and teaching experience to support students of all backgrounds in achieving their academic goals.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Michael has a soft spot for computer gaming and enjoys boondocking at national parks and taking care of his dog, Scooter. His relatable interests and approachable personality make him a favorite among students.
Michael W.
University of Michigan
Michael is an accomplished University of Michigan magna cum laude graduate who works at the Michigan Medicine Orthopedics Center as a medical assistant. He scored in the 100th percentile on the MCAT and has spent hundreds of hours tutoring over three years, leading to a 9-point average increase. He is also the founder of MedLeague, an innovative tool for pre-med students, and has dedicated three years to tutoring students for the MCAT.
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Michael W.
University of Michigan
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Michael achieved a perfect score on the MCAT’s Psych/Soc section and scored in the 99th percentile on the Chem/Phys portion. He credits his success to studying neuroscience at UMichigan.
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Fun Fact
Michael is an avid traveler. He has visited Portugal three times and plans to go to Singapore soon!
Michael is an accomplished University of Michigan magna cum laude graduate who works at the Michigan Medicine Orthopedics Center as a medical assistant. He scored in the 100th percentile on the MCAT and has spent hundreds of hours tutoring over three years, leading to a 9-point average increase. He is also the founder of MedLeague, an innovative tool for pre-med students, and has dedicated three years to tutoring students for the MCAT.
Michael graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience from the University of Michigan. There, he acquired diverse experience in the medical field, spending more than four years as a Rajapakse Lab research assistant. Additionally, he co-founded MedLeague, an online platform enabling pre-medical students to virtually shadow and network with medical students, residents, fellows, and physicians.
After achieving an impressive MCAT score, Michael started helping his friends conquer the exam. After helping his friend achieve a 10-point increase, he decided to use his strengths to help students around the country on the MCAT. After tutoring for hundreds of hours and averaging a 9-point increase on the test, he has become a master of his craft.
As a tutor, Michael’s greatest strength is his approachability. He is friendly, patient, and genuinely wants to see each student succeed. Michael ensures he is readily accessible and goes above and beyond to support students in achieving their academic goals.
Mohammad K.
Rice University
Master Tutor
Mohammad has been tutoring students for three years. He has served as a teaching assistant for biochemistry and physics courses at Rice University, where he graduated with a BS in biosciences with a concentration in biochemistry. This experience has honed his ability to break down complex scientific concepts for students with varying levels of understanding.
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Mohammad K.
Rice University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Mohammad specializes in the science-heavy sections, leveraging his skills as a biochemistry and physics tutor.
Education
Undergrad: Rice University
Fun Fact
Mohammad is a big fan of making origami structures. In his free time, he loves playing video games, going on long hikes, and working out at the gym. He can also speak five languages!
Mohammad has been tutoring students for three years. He has served as a teaching assistant for biochemistry and physics courses at Rice University, where he graduated with a BS in biosciences with a concentration in biochemistry. This experience has honed his ability to break down complex scientific concepts for students with varying levels of understanding.
Mohammad also majored in Asian studies and graduated from Rice with a certificate in Arabic. He achieved a 3.94 cumulative GPA and a 3.92 science GPA, earning him a place on the Rice University President's Honor Roll every fall semester. He also received the Rice Investment Grant and Pell Grant to support his education.
During his college years, Mohammad fell in love with the wonderful art of teaching. He has been a teaching assistant for the challenging biochemistry class at Rice for four semesters and has tutored general physics for two semesters. In these roles, he has conducted review sessions and office hours for over 40 students per semester, while also providing one-on-one support. His efforts have helped numerous students achieve their academic goals.
Mohammad also has extensive research experience and has co-authored four publications in medical journals, including work on brain tumors, COVID-19 vaccines, and neurosurgical literature. He also received the Rice EMS Life Saver Award for saving a choking pediatric patient on campus.
As a tutor, Mohammad excels at teaching MCAT content. His in-depth knowledge of the test’s sections allows him to teach effective methods and shortcuts that can significantly improve performance. He is committed to working with students and supporting them by crafting the most suitable study schedule. He believes in more than just rote memorization of the material; utilizing the proper study strategies to study for the MCAT efficiently is essential.
One of Mohammad's most impressive achievements is his perfect score in the Biology and Biochemistry section of the MCAT. This success is grounded in his deep understanding of not just the content but also the structure and intent of the exam questions. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how questions are framed and what test makers are looking for, a strategy he shares with students to help them excel, particularly in science-heavy sections.
Students working with Mohammad can expect a supportive, personalized, and practical tutoring experience. His approach is designed to build both knowledge and confidence, equipping students with the skills and strategies necessary to excel in the MCAT.
As an experienced tutor who has worked with many students, Mohammad is also deeply involved in the medical field as an EMT, volunteering with EMS services, and has trained new EMT students at Rice. He is proficient in English, Hindi, and other languages.
Mohammed R.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Tutoring
With over nine years of tutoring experience, Mohammed has worked with hundreds of students in group and one-on-one settings. Before attending Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, he graduated from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor with a Bachelor's in neuroscience followed by a Master’s in molecular and integrative psychology.
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Mohammed R.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Mohammad has helped students raise their MCAT scores by an average of 15+ points.
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
Graduate School: University of Michigan Medical School
Medical School: Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Fun Fact
Mohammed does not like sushi, which may be an unpopular opinion. He is a huge sports fan and has been playing soccer since he was little.
With over nine years of tutoring experience, Mohammed has worked with hundreds of students in group and one-on-one settings. Before attending Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, he graduated from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor with a Bachelor's in neuroscience followed by a Master’s in molecular and integrative psychology.
For his graduate degree, Mohammed investigated the dynamics between acetylcholine and dopamine in the striatum of murine models, utilizing advanced techniques such as MatLab, optogenetics, and photometry. Currently, he is working on several projects in the field of neuroscience and neurosurgery in a very successful start to his medical education.
Mohammed has had a passion for medicine and neuroscience from a very young age and he translated that into practice through his research and academic endeavors. During his studies, he found a passion for education and supporting his peers in their academic performance. Mohammed has tutored at Loyola University Chicago, Northwestern University, and the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor. His expertise spans a wide range of subjects, including General Chemistry, Psychology, Neuroscience, Physics, Calculus 1-4, Statistics, and Biochemistry.
As an MCAT tutor, Mohammed excels in all sections of the exam, with particular strength in the Psychology/Sociology section. He excels in personalized tutoring and helping students develop test-taking skills they can implement on the MCAT and beyond. Mohammed draws from his extensive experiences in research and academia to support students and help them find success. What sets Mohammed apart is his structured approach—his meticulous organization and tailored study plans ensure students stay on track and maximize their potential. As a result, students who work with him consistently see drastic score improvements.
Mohammed U.
University of California Riverside School of Medicine
Mohammed graduated summa cum laude in biochemistry from the Honors College of New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), achieving a cumulative and BCPM GPA of 3.99. With over six years of tutoring experience, Mohammed has worked with hundreds of students as a NJIT chemistry tutor and AP Chemistry, Biology, US History, and Calculus BC tutor at Noble Learning Academy, a Bay Area private school.
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Mohammed U.
University of California Riverside School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Mohammed has been tutoring since the age of 15, which has allowed him to encounter a wide variety of learning styles and continuously refine his tutoring techniques to meet the needs of each student.
Education
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: University of California Riverside School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Mohammed is a New York Rangers fan and never misses a game. He also loves spending time outdoors, especially going on night hikes to enjoy the beauty of nature. Back home, he has two adorable cats, Tora and Suki.
Mohammed graduated summa cum laude in biochemistry from the Honors College of New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), achieving a cumulative and BCPM GPA of 3.99. With over six years of tutoring experience, Mohammed has worked with hundreds of students as a NJIT chemistry tutor and AP Chemistry, Biology, US History, and Calculus BC tutor at Noble Learning Academy, a Bay Area private school.
Mohammed’s years of experience have helped him develop a deep understanding of the importance of tailoring tutoring approaches to each individual student. His tutoring journey began in high school, where he tutored math to elementary school children for his school district. This early experience laid the foundation for his tutoring career.
Mohammed's expertise expanded significantly as an AP test tutor for biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus. His effectiveness as a tutor is evidenced by the multiple students who achieved the highest scores of five on their AP exams under his guidance.
During his time at NJIT, Mohammed worked at the chemistry tutoring center, where he not only provided one-on-one tutoring but also organized and conducted midterm and final exam review sessions. He taught general, organic, and biochemistry, helping hundreds of students excel in these courses.
Mohammed's strengths as a tutor are particularly notable in the MCAT’s Chem/Phys section, where he achieved a perfect score of 132. His deep understanding of physical chemistry and his strategic problem-solving skills have proven highly effective in helping students improve their understanding and test performance. Mohammed’s approach to learning and tackling questions, particularly in physical chemistry, has been refined over years of tutoring and has proven successful for many students.
Mohammed's commitment to each student’s success, combined with his personalized tutoring approach and solid foundation in biochemistry, positions him as an excellent source of knowledge and expertise for those preparing for the MCAT or seeking to excel in STEM subjects.
Nathan B.
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
Before attending the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, Nathan graduated from Ave Maria University with a Bachelor’s in physics and mathematics. His strategic approach to preparing for the DAT earned him a remarkable 99th percentile score. During his undergrad, he tutored students in many subjects, from probability and calculus to philosophy and anatomy.
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Nathan B.
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Nathan has a quick crash course method that can quickly transform someone with no background into a DAT expert.
Education
Undergrad: Ave Maria University
Dental School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
If Nathan hadn't pursued dentistry, he believes he would be working in a nuclear submarine under Antarctica.
Before attending the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, Nathan graduated from Ave Maria University with a Bachelor’s in physics and mathematics. His strategic approach to preparing for the DAT earned him a remarkable 99th percentile score. During his undergrad, he tutored students in many subjects, from probability and calculus to philosophy and anatomy.
Nathan's approach to DAT preparation is centered on developing a personalized, time-sensitive game plan that focuses on learning, understanding, and mastering the exam content. He works closely with students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, creating a tailored study strategy that optimizes their time and effort.
Nathan's greatest strength lies in his ability to develop strategies tailored to each student's needs, while empowering them to master test content. One of Nathan's main areas of expertise is quantitative reasoning, a section he studied extensively. He is particularly adept at helping students tackle challenging test subsections and providing valuable insights on effective test-taking strategies. By sharing his own experiences and the techniques that led to his success, Nathan empowers students to approach the DAT confidently. Any student who feels behind and overwhelmed in their DAT preparation can find a helping hand from Nathan.
Nathaniel K.
Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Nathaniel graduated with a BS in biochemistry and a minor in humanities from Azusa Pacific University before matriculating at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he serves on the cabinet of the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association. With 10 years of tutoring experience, he is dedicated to helping aspiring medical students perform their best on the MCAT.
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Nathaniel K.
Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Nathaniel has been tutoring students in the sciences since high school.
Education
Undergrad: Azusa Pacific University
Medical School: Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Nathaniel loves to cook. He is starting an Instagram channel documenting his culinary progress. He also enjoys discovering niche coffee shops to study in and is more than happy to listen to recommendations.
Nathaniel graduated with a BS in biochemistry and a minor in humanities from Azusa Pacific University before matriculating at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he serves on the cabinet of the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association. With 10 years of tutoring experience, he is dedicated to helping aspiring medical students perform their best on the MCAT.
As a child, Nathaniel had a fascination with the sciences and spent a lot of his time caught up in books on space, biology, and chemistry. He eventually took this passion to Azusa Pacific University, taking part in undergraduate research under Dr. Kevin Huang, an accomplished organic chemist with ground-breaking publications on the chemical backbones of proteins. During college, Nathaniel was accepted to a volunteer position at COPE Health Scholars, a nationwide organization dedicated to excellence in patient care and the pursuit of educating the next generation of health care professionals. In definitive hospital observation units, Nathaniel developed an appreciation for patient care. At Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Nathaniel pursues his passion for whole-person care while publishing under well-renowned researchers in neuro-ophthalmology.
Throughout his educational career, Nathaniel has accumulated much experience in teaching and coaching. Throughout high school, Nathaniel participated in local tutoring organizations like Young Leaders of Orange County to provide free tutoring services to socioeconomically challenged children. In his undergraduate years, he began a private tutoring business that helped countless students excel in tough topics like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and pre-algebra. At Loma Linda, Nathaniel continues to participate in advising and tutoring organizations.
Nathaniel's personal tutoring style involves a case-based learning process that emphasizes practice questions to solidify concepts. Students he has tutored raise their MCAT scores by 5 points on average. Nathaniel’s personal belief is that the best way to study for an exam is to take many exams. In other words, practicing in the style of the MCAT is the best way to learn and succeed in the exam. In addition to focusing on questions, he offers didactic-based sessions on high-yield topics to hone in on concepts most likely to appear on test day.
Nicholas S.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Nick grew up in the small town of Oxford, PA, surrounded by cornfields for most of his life. He attended Temple University as a first-generation college student, where he discovered a love for biochemistry. He graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Nick aced the DAT with a 28AA score and matriculated to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.
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Nicholas S.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Nick aced the DAT with a 28 AA score.
Education
Undergrad: Temple University
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Nick enjoys spending time with friends, family, and his dog, Luke—the world’s cutest pom-a-pug. He plays guitar to relax and, like any true Philly native, stays loyal through every heartbreaking sports season.
Nick grew up in the small town of Oxford, PA, surrounded by cornfields for most of his life. He attended Temple University as a first-generation college student, where he discovered a love for biochemistry. He graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Nick aced the DAT with a 28AA score and matriculated to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.
Nick’s love for teaching began at Temple, inspired by a TA who helped him during his sophomore year. He went on to become a TA for Organic Chemistry I and II, tutored student-athletes in STEM at Temple’s Resnick Center, and volunteered as a TA and tutor in elementary schools across North Philadelphia. He received the American Chemical Society Scholastic Achievement Award and Otto Kurschner Memorial Award at Temple University, as well as the Abraham and Ruth Clearfield Scholarship and Hazel M. Tomlinson, Ph.D. Memorial Scholarship. During his gap year, Nick worked as a full-time dental assistant at Precision Endodontic Network, developing his clinical skills for dental school.
As someone who knows firsthand the impact of a good mentor, Nick sees tutoring as a way to help students succeed in their studies and build the confidence and problem-solving skills they’ll use long after.
Nicole
Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
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Nicole
Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical College Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Undergrad: Tufts University
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Fun Fact
Nicole was a competitive ballroom dancer in college, and she still loves to dance salsa and bachata!
Nicole earned her Bachelor's degree Summa Cum Laude from Tufts University, majoring in Community Health and French. She is presently an MD candidate at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.
During her time at Tufts, Nicole taught health education workshops to local high school students and trained health educator volunteers. She also spent a semester in Senegal studying French and global health while interning at a Red Cross clinic. In her gap years, Nicole worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, running clinical trials for the Gastroenterology Motility team. She has also presented research at national conferences and authored several publications.
Nicole excels in mentoring students and training research assistants, helping them achieve their unique goals and develop unique study strategies that will serve them throughout their health careers. As an admissions coach, she is eager to collaborate with MCAT students and guide them towards success in their medical journeys.
Nicole L.
University of California, Los Angeles
Director of Tutoring
Nicole graduated summa cum laude from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a Bachelor's degree in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics, and currently works at the University of California, San Francisco Oncology Database. Nicole has over five years of tutoring experience and achieved a top score on the MCAT.
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Nicole L.
University of California, Los Angeles
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Nicole achieved a perfect score on the MCAT’s Biology/Biochemistry section.
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Fun Fact
Nicole enjoys all things caffeine: matcha, coffee, boba, and more. She loves cafe hopping, exploring local businesses with her friends, and laughing with her friends and family.
Nicole graduated summa cum laude from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a Bachelor's degree in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics, and currently works at the University of California, San Francisco Oncology Database. Nicole has over five years of tutoring experience and achieved a top score on the MCAT.
After graduating college, Nicole explored her interest in oncology as the Data and Engagement Lead at the UCSF Oncology Database. In this position, she designed the curriculum and led training sessions for 30+ newly recruited interns. Nicole has an extensive background in mentoring and tutoring students in various subjects, ranging from high school precalculus to clinical research.
Nicole hopes to guide students to view the studying process as a journey of self-growth. With her thorough understanding of subjects like biochemistry, biology, and chemistry, Nicole looks forward to breaking down complex topics in memorable and interactive ways. She prioritizes building relationships and is committed to transparent communication and empathetic mentorship. Nicole is passionate about collaborating with students to build a study schedule that is fit for their needs.
Nikola K.
University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Master Tutor
Before pursuing an MD from the University of Ottawa, Nikola graduated from the University of Windsor. He is a highly accomplished MCAT tutor with a strong foundation in biology, biomedical sciences, and chemistry. With a decade of tutoring, leadership, and mentorship experience, Nikola effectively guides students toward success in achieving their MCAT goals.
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Nikola K.
University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Nikola's decade-long tutoring background gives him a nuanced perspective on effectively preparing students for the MCAT and supporting them in achieving high scores.
Education
Undergrad: University of Windsor
Medical School: University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Fun Fact
Nikola spends most of his free time playing sports, and his favorite is soccer—he is a massive Manchester United fan. He loves music and has been playing the guitar for 15 years. But, more than anything, Nikola loves spending time with his Australian Shepherd, Luna.
Before pursuing an MD from the University of Ottawa, Nikola graduated from the University of Windsor. He is a highly accomplished MCAT tutor with a strong foundation in biology, biomedical sciences, and chemistry. With a decade of tutoring, leadership, and mentorship experience, Nikola effectively guides students toward success in achieving their MCAT goals.
Nikola graduated with distinction from the University of Windsor, earning an honors degree in biological sciences and completing an undergraduate thesis in biomedical sciences. At the University of Windsor and the University of Ottawa Medical School, he engaged in impactful research across diverse fields, such as molecular biochemistry, physician health and wellness, and interventional cardiology. He also led the R&D portfolio at Enactus Windsor, spearheading innovative student-led projects, including the nationally recognized Mycolite presented at the 2023 National Enactus Presentations, just two years after its development.
Nikola also served as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Youth Advisory Council at a community hospital in Windsor, connecting thousands of high school students with mental health resources and initiatives throughout the city. His leadership extended to Jack.org, where he was Chapter President at the University of Windsor, empowering young leaders to innovate mental health initiatives nationally. Additionally, Nikola brings nearly a decade of tutoring experience across diverse subjects, including leading study groups, tutoring in science and chemistry at the college level, and providing personalized exam help in organic chemistry.
Nikola is dedicated to empowering applicants to reach their full potential and excel on the MCAT, paving the way for their aspirations to become physicians. His robust background in biology, biomedical sciences, and chemistry, coupled with his proven track record in academia, leadership, and mentoring, uniquely qualifies him as an exceptional MCAT tutor. Students Nikolas has coached have boosted their MCAT scores by an average of 10+ points.
Nikola’s expertise allows him to effectively guide students through challenging content while fostering efficient study habits and reducing exam-related stress. Additionally, his passion for mental health advocacy ensures a supportive and empathetic approach to helping students achieve their academic goals.
Noah F.
Tufts University School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Noah graduated from Brown University with a degree in chemical physics before pursuing an MD at Tufts University School of Medicine. With over three years of tutoring experience and a history of working with 100+ students, Noah has tutored students who have scored 518 on the MCAT on average, with some achieving 523+ scores.
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Noah F.
Tufts University School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Having a background in chemical physics, Noah is especially confident in teaching the Chemical & Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section.
Education
Undergrad: Brown University
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Noah speaks English and Mandarin.
Noah graduated from Brown University with a degree in chemical physics before pursuing an MD at Tufts University School of Medicine. With over three years of tutoring experience and a history of working with 100+ students, Noah has tutored students who have scored 518 on the MCAT on average, with some achieving 523+ scores.
Throughout college, Noah received many academic and research accolades. Graduating magna cum laude with departmental honors, he was awarded the Paul C. Cross Prize for being the top physical chemistry undergraduate student at Brown University. He was also deeply involved in computational chemistry/biophysics research, where he applied physics-based computational simulations to understand the molecular mechanisms of diseases such as gout, Niemann-Pick Disease Type C, and antibiotic resistance. He achieved multiple peer-reviewed publications for his research and was awarded the Llealyn B. Clapp Prize for Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis, the Amgen Scholars Award, and the NIH Postbaccalaureate Intramural Research Training Award. In medical school, Noah pursues research at the intersection of neuroimaging and machine learning.
In three years, Noah has worked with more than 100 different students as a general chemistry and organic chemistry teaching assistant at Brown University, and is highly committed to empowering students to reach their academic goals. Having taught students from various backgrounds, his approach to tutoring is unique to each individual, with their own personal strengths and weaknesses, circumstances, and goals.
One of Noah's biggest strengths as a tutor is his ability to personalize his tutoring approach for each student to maximize their learning potential. He aims to create customized study plans for each student that best accommodate their personal schedules, structure sessions tailored to their learning needs, and adjust teaching styles based on what the student finds most effective.
Noah is devoted to helping students thrive not only academically, but also personally. He recognizes that succeeding on the MCAT may require navigating challenges beyond learning study methods or test strategies. For instance, managing stress, balancing extracurricular commitments, dealing with unexpected life events, and maintaining overall wellness are all important components of flourishing as a student and test-taker. By drawing upon experiences from his own MCAT journey, Noah strives to support students to find balance both in and out of their studies.
Owen
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
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Owen
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Oral and maxillofacial surgery resident at Mount Sinai Health System
Education
Undergrad: University of Virginia
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Fun Fact
Owen has a pet dog named Lulu who loves to cuddle. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, snowboarding, attending music festivals, playing COD mobile, and discovering new restaurants.
Owen has an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, a DMD from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and an MD from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is an accomplished oral and maxillofacial surgery resident at Mount Sinai Health Systems in New York City. His research interests include implementing augmented reality in surgical education and treatment and exploring vascular malformations of the head and neck.
Throughout his academic journey, Owen has always found joy in teaching and guiding others to achieve their educational goals. As a mentor in Harvard's Pre-Health Advising Program, he supported students in developing successful applications and improving their interview skills. Owen has also served as a private tutor at the University of Virginia, helping students prepare for the SAT and DAT. These experiences have honed his ability to connect with students, create engaging learning environments, and support student success.
Owen's academic journey, transitioning from a computer science major at the University of Virginia to a dental and medical school applicant, reflects his aptitude for helping Inspira applicants craft compelling narratives in their applications. His comprehensive guidance and support for clients seeking admission to dental and medical schools are further strengthened by his enthusiasm, work ethic, and passion for helping future colleagues succeed. Owen is excited to help students achieve their academic goals and get them into their dream dental or medical school!
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Dr. Aanika W.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
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Dr. Aanika W.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Hematology
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Warner learned how to scuba dive in 2019! Since then, she's explored the seas of Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Turks and Caicos. Her favorite dive was through a field of moon jellyfish. In her opinion, scuba diving is the closest feeling to flying there is.
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
Dr. Warner graduated from Johns Hopkins with an MD and MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics before becoming a resident physician at the Johns Hopkins Osler Internal Medicine Training Program. Dr. Warner has sat on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee and has years of experience as a pre-medical advisor working with students who have been accepted to top medical schools such as the UCSF School of Medicine, UVA School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, among others.
Dr. Warner obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, where her fascination with the medical field flourished. She worked in a breast cancer research lab for four years, studying the protein interactions of triple-negative breast cancer. Her work in the lab led to her receiving funding to participate in a research exchange program in Sweden.
Her research experiences solidified her interest in oncology and led her to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. During medical school, she won multiple scholarships, including the AMWA Carter Global Health Fellowship and the PEO International Scholar Award. After her third year of medical school, Aanika stepped away to pursue a fully funded MPH degree at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Here she was able to learn advanced statistical techniques for clinical research. She currently serves on the Procedures Working Group Committee at Johns Hopkins to increase procedure training for residents in the Osler Internal Medicine Residency.
Dr. Warner's passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school. She understands the stress and complexity of the process and wishes she had had someone knowledgeable to guide her through it. This experience, combined with her love for teaching, drives her commitment to helping future doctors achieve their goals.
As a consultant since her fourth year of medical school, Dr. Warner has worked with pre-medical students seeking guidance during their college years, as well as those navigating the medical school application process. She has also been involved in one-on-one advising and interview preparation and her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications.
Dr. Warner's approach to counseling is thorough, structured, and efficient. She maintains close contact with students during the application process, ensuring they have a partner to lean on during this stressful time. Her sessions are productive and tailored to each student's needs, covering a variety of topics. After each session, she provides a brief summary email, allowing students to review the discussion and follow up with any additional questions.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how admissions committees operate and review applicants. Dr. Warner works quickly while ensuring each student receives dedicated time on their written work to present their best selves. Her recent success stories include helping a student create an excellent update letter that resulted in their acceptance off the waitlist at UCSF.
Apart from her consulting work, Dr. Warner has continued to explore her interest in oncology and present at the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She was recently the keynote speaker at the Undergraduate Biology Research Program at the University of Arizona.
Dr. Abena A.
George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Dr. Akomeah is an emergency and lifestyle medicine physician. She graduated with an MD from George Washington University School of Medicine, completed a residency at Carolinas Medical Center, and earned a Master of Education from Johns Hopkins University. She has five years of admissions committee experience, acting as an application reviewer and interviewer at her medical school and residency program.
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Dr. Abena A.
George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: George Washington University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Fun Fact
Dr. Akomeah enjoys trying new plant-based recipes, spending some time outdoors on hikes or walks, and hanging out with family.
Dr. Akomeah is an emergency and lifestyle medicine physician. She graduated with an MD from George Washington University School of Medicine, completed a residency at Carolinas Medical Center, and earned a Master of Education from Johns Hopkins University. She has five years of admissions committee experience, acting as an application reviewer and interviewer at her medical school and residency program.
Dr. Akomeah’s passion for patient care was ignited in her childhood when she would play “doctor” at her mother’s small pharmacy in Ghana. After moving to the United States, Dr. Akomeah became a certified nursing assistant before attaining a BS in biology with a minor in philosophy from George Washington University (GWU), graduating cum laude. She further honed her research and clinical coordination skills during a post-baccalaureate experience at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on obesity research.
Returning to GWU for medical school, Dr. Akomeah served as President of the Society of Health and Nutrition and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She also pursued global health by volunteering in a clinic in Antigua, Guatemala—an experience that shaped her commitment to caring for diverse patient populations across all age groups.
Drawn to emergency medicine, Dr. Akomeah completed her residency at Carolinas Medical Center (now Atrium Health), where she developed a strong interest in student mentorship. In addition to hosting residency applicants and conducting mock interviews, she credits her own phenomenal mentor for inspiring her to help others succeed. She also led efforts to develop tools to attract a diverse and talented pool of residents for her department and to ensure that a culture of inclusion and awareness was fostered. Following her residency, Dr. Akomeah started a medical education fellowship at the University of Maryland and pursued a Master of Education in health professions at Johns Hopkins University.
Currently, Dr. Akomeah serves as an adjunct professor and Educational Director in her emergency department at the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, precepting medical students from Caribbean schools and residents in family medicine, internal medicine, and emergency medicine. She is also known for integrating lifestyle medicine into her practice, often coaching patients on how dietary and behavioral changes can help manage or reverse chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Beyond her clinical duties, Dr. Akomeah has published on topics ranging from emergency medicine training in Africa to obesity research, reflecting her commitment to global health and evidence-based practice.
Dr. Akomeah has continued to mentor residents, undergraduate students, and medical students, as she enjoys assisting students navigate the path to medical school and residency. Her students describe her as an approachable, encouraging mentor who challenges them to develop both strong applications and a deeper understanding of their professional goals. Ultimately, Dr. Akomeah’s guiding principle is to empower each aspiring healthcare professional to identify and highlight their unique strengths, ensuring that every individual she mentors is well-prepared for a successful career in medicine.
Dr. Adil M.
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Menon holds an MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School and an MD from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his clinical pathology residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is now a microbiology fellow at the Mayo Clinic. He also serves as the faculty facilitator for several courses at the Feinberg School of Medicine.
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Dr. Adil M.
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Microbiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
In his free time, Dr. Menon enjoys studying history.
Dr. Menon holds an MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School and an MD from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his clinical pathology residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is now a microbiology fellow at the Mayo Clinic. He also serves as the faculty facilitator for several courses at the Feinberg School of Medicine.
Dr. Menon’s higher education journey began at the University of Chicago, where he graduated with a BA and departmental honors in history, philosophy, and social science of science and medicine. During college, he served as Program Coordinator for STRIVE, an after-school tutoring program for adolescents with sickle cell disease. Before attending medical school, he earned his MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School.
During his medical education, Dr. Menon served as a writing coach and peer tutor. Throughout medical school and residency, he regularly contributed to the Merck Medical Student Manual, spotlighting medical school life and current issues in medicine. He has also earned recognition for his academic achievements, including the American Society of Clinical Pathology's Gold Award and research grants from the Brian Werbel Memorial Fund and the American Heart Association. His written work is featured in prestigious journals such as Hektoen International, the Harvard Medical School Bioethics Journal, The Pathologist, JAMA Cardiology, and the Journal of Clinical Tuberculosis and Other Mycobacterial Diseases.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Menon has presented scientific work at major conferences, including the American Epilepsy Society, the American Society of Microbiology, and the Society of General Internal Medicine's annual meetings. His dedication to medical education earned him induction into the Feinberg Academy of Medical Educators Trainee section, where he contributes significantly to the training of first-year medical students.
As a counselor, Dr. Menon excels in providing comprehensive support to aspiring medical students and residents. His involvement with platforms like Inside the Match and MatchToPath allows him to share his expertise in personal statement development, resume building, and interview preparation. His methodical approach ensures that each student receives personalized guidance tailored to their specific needs and aspirations.
Dr. Menon brings a wealth of experience in mentoring and academic excellence, guiding aspiring students through the complex application process. His methodical mentorship style involves tailoring individualized plans based on each student’s goals and unique backgrounds, helping them develop compelling application packages.
Dr. Menon's commitment to mentoring and education, combined with his extensive experience in clinical pathology and medical research, positions him well to guide the next generation of doctors. His passion for helping others navigate the complexities of the application process ensures students are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.
Dr. Aditya K.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Dr. Khurana is a radiology resident at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, bringing a blend of medical expertise, research experience, and innovation to his role. His commitment to innovation in radiology is reflected in his role on the RadioGraphics Trainee Editorial Advisory Members (TEAM) Board for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
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Dr. Aditya K.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Khurana loves coffee, espresso, and trying new coffee shops. He is also a fan of trail running and cycling.
Dr. Khurana is a radiology resident at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, bringing a blend of medical expertise, research experience, and innovation to his role. His commitment to innovation in radiology is reflected in his role on the RadioGraphics Trainee Editorial Advisory Members (TEAM) Board for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
Dr. Khurana completed his undergraduate studies at Duke University, majoring in neuroscience. He then attended the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, graduating as part of the inaugural class at the Arizona campus. His academic path has been characterized by a series of steps forward and continuous self-discovery, always seeking to find his niche in healthcare that energizes him and allows him to co-create something better with his peers.
During medical school, Dr. Khurana was awarded a grant from the Mayo Clinic to design AI/NLP solutions for the patient portal in the electronic health record (EHR). He collaborated with NLP researchers across the enterprise to advance this technology. Additionally, he engaged with the Care Collaboratory, a network of healthcare leaders and innovators, where he learned and taught design thinking to redesign healthcare with a human-centered approach.
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Khurana has been extensively involved in research, ranging from computational neuroscience in undergrad to artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and health services research in medical school. His research prowess is evidenced by numerous publications in these areas, and he continues to be academically productive.
Dr. Khurana gained experience as an internal medicine resident in PGY-1 at Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance before starting his radiology residency. His research experience includes work at Mayo Clinic's Minimally Invasive Therapeutics Laboratory and the Precision Neurotherapeutics (PNT) Innovation Program, where he was involved in data science and machine learning projects related to glioblastomas.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Khurana enjoys trail running through Phoenix's mountain preserves, cycling, and curating music playlists. He measures a good day by having more energy at the end of it than at the beginning.
Dr. Khurana's goal is to contribute to the eventual redesign of healthcare, combining his medical expertise with his passion for innovation and technology. His diverse experiences and forward-thinking approach position him as a knowledgeable mentor and promising future leader in the field of radiology and healthcare innovation.
Dr. Ajay K.
University of Michigan School of Medicine
Dr. Kolli has an MD from the University of Michigan, an MPH from Harvard, and is a resident physician in Ophthalmology at UCSF. He has extensive research experience, 100th percentile USMLE scores, and a passion for helping diverse applicants craft compelling narratives.
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Dr. Ajay K.
University of Michigan School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Medical School: University of Michigan School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Kolli loves spending time outdoors, skiing in the winter, and hiking or surfing when it's warm.
Dr. Kolli has an MD from the University of Michigan, an MPH from Harvard, and is a resident physician in Ophthalmology at UCSF. He has extensive research experience, 100th percentile USMLE scores, and a passion for helping diverse applicants craft compelling narratives.
Before beginning his residency, Dr. Kolli earned his MD degree from the University of Michigan and his MPH from Harvard University. With experience at various prestigious institutions across the country, Dr. Kolli is well-equipped to assist applicants interested in schools in any region.
During his time at the University of Michigan Medical School, Dr. Kolli achieved 100th percentile scores on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 board exams, received the Charles and Phyllis Lowe Merit Scholarship, was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honors Society, and graduated with Distinction in Research Honors. He has conducted a wide array of research at both Michigan and Harvard, resulting in numerous publications and academic conference presentations in fields such as ophthalmology, epidemiology, and health economics. Dr. Kolli has also worked as a consultant in the biotechnology industry, helping move new drugs toward FDA approval.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Kolli's strengths lie in his diverse academic interests and ability to help applicants from varied backgrounds craft a cohesive narrative about their experiences. Having navigated the medical school admissions process himself and co-founded The Lens, an educational resource for aspiring ophthalmologists, he is passionate about guiding applicants in telling their stories.
Dr. Alex X.
New York University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Xu is currently the Chief Resident in urology at NYU Langone and has earned national awards for outstanding work. As an NYU School of Medicine graduate via the Accelerated Three-Year Pathway, he has published extensively on topics including prostate cancer, robotic reconstructive techniques, and the impact of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Xu sat on NYU admissions committees for medical school and his residency program as an interviewer and was privy to the discussion and ranking process.
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Dr. Alex X.
New York University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Urology, Surgery, Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad:Columbia University
Medical School: New York University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Xu comes from a family of creatives—his grandfather was a Hollywood actor, his brother is a popular content creator, and his aunt has written several books. In his spare time, he enjoys trying out new recipes and restaurants, and traveling—South Africa and Costa Rica are next on his list!
Dr. Xu is currently the Chief Resident in urology at NYU Langone and has earned national awards for outstanding work. As an NYU School of Medicine graduate via the Accelerated Three-Year Pathway, he has published extensively on topics including prostate cancer, robotic reconstructive techniques, and the impact of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Xu sat on NYU admissions committees for medical school and his residency program as an interviewer and was privy to the discussion and ranking process.
As a competitive high school swimmer and crew team member, Dr. Xu honed his discipline and teamwork skills, which later translated to his success as a Division I athlete at Columbia University. Pursuing a major in biology on the pre-med track, he maintained an impressive 3.8 cumulative GPA while balancing his athletic commitments and community involvement.
During his time at Columbia, Dr. Xu's passion for helping others shone through his volunteer work at the Crime Victims Treatment Center, where he provided support to survivors of domestic violence in the Emergency Department. Recognizing the importance of health education, he taught classes in under-resourced high schools through Peer Health Exchange.
Dr. Xu also spent two years as a research assistant at Columbia, studying the effect of chronic stress on the developmental fate of stem cells, before spending two years as a Contemporary Biology Lab teaching assistant. Additionally, he spearheaded the Columbia chapter of Camp Kesem, organizing a transformative summer camp for children whose parents were battling cancer.
After graduating from Columbia, Dr. Xu began his gap year to improve his skills further and gain new experiences. He conducted bench research at NYU's Department of Biochemistry, deepening his understanding of the scientific foundations of medicine, before scoring in the top 0.01% of MCAT takers. Simultaneously, he provided private tutoring services across Manhattan, honing his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively.
At NYU, Dr. Xu discovered his passion for urology after shadowing several surgical specialties. He has recently secured a prestigious position at Case Western University Hospitals for a genitourinary reconstruction and gender affirmation fellowship.
As a first-generation physician and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Dr. Xu brings a different perspective to his role as a mentor and advisor. He recognizes that each student's journey to medical school and beyond is deeply personal and shaped by their individual experiences and background. His ability to connect with and support a diverse range of applicants sets him apart as a trusted guide and advocate for aspiring medical professionals.
Dr. Alexa A.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Altchek is a categorical pediatrics resident in the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, a Harvard–affiliated program at Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center. She earned her MD from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, where she received the Dean’s Scholarship for academic achievement every year. She has over seven years of mentorship experience and served on the Rutgers Medical School admissions committee for three years.
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Dr. Alexa A.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics
Education
Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Fun Fact
Dr. Altchek’s scholarly work has been supported by the Fred Lovejoy House-Staff Research and Education Fund Grant.
Dr. Altchek is a categorical pediatrics resident in the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, a Harvard–affiliated program at Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center. She earned her MD from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, where she received the Dean’s Scholarship for academic achievement every year. She has over seven years of mentorship experience and served on the Rutgers Medical School admissions committee for three years.
Before her time at Rutgers, Dr. Altchek completed her undergraduate education at Harvard University, where she graduated with Latin honors with a top GPA. She excelled as a four-year Division I varsity athlete on the Harvard softball team, winning an Ivy League Championship and participating in the NCAA tournament. She became an expert in time management with a grueling academic and athletic schedule, as well as perseverance and dedication to all her varied pursuits through her time at Harvard.
At Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Altchek was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She was dedicated to her work in the community, creating and implementing a unique mental health and wellness curriculum in a local high school health class. She was recognized for her achievements and graduated with Distinction in Service to the Community. She also received multiple grants and scholarships from the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia in recognition of her academic and service commitment throughout medical school.
Dr. Altchek was heavily involved in medical education and the student experience at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson, serving as an elected member of the Student Government Association as well as being selected as a student representative on the medical school’s admissions committee. She acted as an interviewer and played an active role in selecting incoming medical school students and future physicians, where she learned what makes and sets apart the best medical school candidates.
Now a resident physician, Dr. Altchek continues to pursue her passion for medical education and mentorship by guiding students through applying to medical school and residency. As the first medical professional in her family, she appreciates the importance of having a thoughtful, knowledgeable guide through the application process. Students she has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Washington University School of Medicine, UMass Chan School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, and others.
One of Dr. Altchek’s greatest strengths as an advisor is her friendly, welcoming demeanor and open communication style. She is warm and inviting, enabling students to be their true and honest selves and put their best foot forward in the application process. The experience of applying to medical school and residency is a personal one, and Dr. Altchek is incredibly dedicated to finding the best fit for every individual, helping them grow and achieve each one of their personal goals along the way.
Dr. Altchek approaches each counseling session with a detailed, timely approach that keeps each person’s personal and professional goals at the top of mind. She enables students to be the experts in their own experience, taking the lead with strategic guidance and mentorship along the way. Her approach is well-rounded, allowing her to pay attention to all the details that comprise a successful applicant. Dr. Altchek loves the connection that close counseling can provide and aims to help and lift her future medical colleagues through the process to become the best physicians they can be!
Dr. Andre S.
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Stone is an ophthalmology resident at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary in Chicago and a dedicated admissions coach with over eight years of experience in medicine, research, and mentorship. He graduated with an MD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded a scholarship covering the entire cost of his attendance and served on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
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Dr. Andre S.
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Stone is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer, having competed in bodybuilding competitions and consistently encouraging others to pursue wellness. He is also an advocate for community service, has volunteered extensively, and has participated in global mission trips.
Dr. Stone is an ophthalmology resident at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary in Chicago and a dedicated admissions coach with over eight years of experience in medicine, research, and mentorship. He graduated with an MD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded a scholarship covering the entire cost of his attendance and served on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
Dr. Stone began his academic journey at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he graduated with a double major in biomedical sciences and pre-clinical health sciences. While at UCF, he was actively involved as an orientation leader, resident assistant, and biology tutor.
Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Stone received acceptances from several prestigious institutions but chose the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded the Dean’s Diversity Full Cost of Attendance Scholarship, covering the entire cost of attendance for four years of medical school. Upon graduation, Dr. Stone matched into a residency position at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the nation’s top ophthalmology programs accepting only six residents per year.
Dr. Stone has an extensive research portfolio that includes studies on the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, advancements in diabetic retinopathy screening, and innovative approaches to addressing barriers in eye care. He has been published in multiple journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care, and the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology, with multiple first-author manuscripts. His presentations at national conferences, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery, highlight his ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Stone leverages his firsthand understanding of the challenges applicants face at every stage of the process. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the admissions table, he offers a personalized, compassionate approach. He excels at helping students identify their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and craft authentic narratives that resonate with admissions committees.
Above all, Dr. Stone is passionate about shaping the next generation of physicians. By offering empathetic guidance and rigorous preparation, he ensures that every applicant he mentors has the tools to excel in medicine and beyond.
Dr. Andrew W.
Icahn School of Medicine
Dr. Warburton is an anesthesiology resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. In his first year of medical school, Dr. Warburton participated in multiple research labs, focusing on large-data analysis and machine learning. His research endeavors have been prolific, resulting in over 20 peer-reviewed publications.
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Dr. Andrew W.
Icahn School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Warburton is a licensed rescue diver, a die-hard Steelers fan, and a self-proclaimed wine and chocolate expert. He enjoys going to the gym, playing video games, playing the piano, and shooting.
Dr. Warburton is an anesthesiology resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. In his first year of medical school, Dr. Warburton participated in multiple research labs, focusing on large-data analysis and machine learning. His research endeavors have been prolific, resulting in over 20 peer-reviewed publications.
Originally from the greater Pittsburgh area, Dr. Warburton completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in computational chemistry with a focus on biology. During college, he conducted research through the Department of Biomedical Informatics, publishing a paper in Scientific Reports on long non-coding RNA SNHG7 and its impact on breast cancer. Demonstrating exceptional academic prowess, Dr. Warburton graduated in just three years before proceeding directly to medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Alongside his academic pursuits, Dr. Warburton co-founded Retina Technologies Inc., a startup valued at $12 million. As the former Chief Technology Officer, he led the development of a revolutionary approach to vision care. The company aims to disrupt the field by leveraging virtual reality, retinal imaging, and machine learning on a portable platform, providing affordable, accessible, and accurate vision screening across the United States. Under his leadership, the company conducted four clinical trials, and submitted three provisional patents and one non-provisional PCT patent, with Dr. Warburton personally overseeing the development of both hardware and software components.
Dr. Warburton’s ability to balance these responsibilities while excelling in his medical studies is a testament to his dedication and time management skills. He is committed to helping others in their medical careers, leveraging his diverse experiences to mentor and guide aspiring healthcare professionals.
Dr. Archana P.
Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program
Master Advisor
Dr. Podury earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT HST Program after completing her BA in Neuroscience at Cornell. With a talent for improving patients' lives through technology and research, she is eager to guide applicants through the admissions process.
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Dr. Archana P.
Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School (Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program)
Fun Fact
Before medical school, Dr. Podury lived solo in Japan for two months and documented her time in a travel sketchbook. Her book grows as she travels more—most recently, to Iceland and Denmark.
Dr. Podury earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT HST Program after completing her BA in Neuroscience at Cornell. With a talent for improving patients' lives through technology and research, she is eager to guide applicants through the admissions process.
Dr. Podury is currently an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery resident at the University of California San Diego. Before beginning her residency, she earned a BA in neuroscience from Cornell University, where she was a Hunter R. Rawlings Presidential Research Scholar, Barry M. Goldwater Scholar Honorable Mention, and a Phi Beta Kappa member. She earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program.
During her time at Cornell, Dr. Podury earned several awards in recognition of her research, including the Einhorn Discovery Grant, the Zuckerman Prize for Excellence in Bioengineering Research, the Ewing Family Service Award, and the Menschell Cornell Commitment Award. While studying neural circuits, Archana worked at a syringe exchange in Ithaca, New York, where she witnessed firsthand the mechanics of court-based drug rehabilitation. Listening to patients’ stories deepened her conviction that science alone could not capture multiple dimensions of health and disease, which paved her path toward medicine.
At Harvard, Dr. Podury received $90,000 in scholarship support as a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow and David Margin Graduate Student Leadership Fellow; she was also a recipient of the Massachusetts Medical Society Information Technology Award and Freeberg Student Research Award. Her work has centered on developing technologies to improve patient’s quality of life. In the Boyden Lab at MIT, she used optical imaging methods to characterize circuit dysfunction in human brain organoid models of neurodevelopmental disease, culminating in a publication in Nature.
Dr. Podury worked in the Dhand Lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital to apply network science tools to understand how patients’ social environments influence their health outcomes during disability. She is currently working in the Otopathology lab at Massachusetts Eye & Ear to study implant options for patients with sensorineural hearing loss and is applying machine learning methods to study surgical outcomes.
As an admissions coach, she enjoys listening to students' stories and is committed to helping them communicate their interests genuinely and in alignment with their values.
Dr. Benjamin P.
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Park is a resident physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center with over two years of experience working with both international and U.S. applicants applying to MD, DO, and Caribbean programs. Before matriculating to Vanderbilt, he worked as a research coordinator at the renowned Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute.
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Dr. Benjamin P.
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Medical School: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Park is a former amateur boxer who has had the chance to box in Georgia and Vietnam.
Dr. Park is a resident physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center with over two years of experience working with both international and U.S. applicants applying to MD, DO, and Caribbean programs. Before matriculating to Vanderbilt, he worked as a research coordinator at the renowned Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute.
Dr. Park graduated summa cum laude from the University of Georgia with the highest honors and a research distinction. At UGA, he rowed for the UGA Crew Team, led over 8 campus organizations, led the genetic engineering team to a gold medal at an international competition against >300 teams, interned at the Institute for Disaster Management, established the UGA STEM Research Alliance, and was awarded the Presidential Award of Excellence as one of the overall top 1% graduate students. He also had several international study and healthcare experiences in South Korea, Spain, and Vietnam as a Freeman-Asia Scholar and a visiting student intern.
At Vanderbilt, Dr. Park led several mentoring, patient care, and advocacy initiatives. He was the director of the Shade Tree Plastic Surgery & Wound Care clinic, which provides free care to underserved patients who require plastic surgery procedures and wound care in Nashville, TN. To improve patient care and access, he served as a subcommittee leader on the Vanderbilt Medical Center’s High-Value Care Committee and as a board member of the Vanderbilt Tennessee Medical Association chapter. He mentored students from various backgrounds and interests when he served as the leader of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group. During this time, he also served as a medical writer for the Journal of Medical Insight.
Before residency, he also completed a dual research fellowship as a fully funded Vanderbilt Medical Scholar in Plastic Surgery and Hematology/Oncology, where he researched patient-reported outcomes measures, biomedical ethics, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. This research resulted in >20 publications, numerous podium and poster presentations at national and international meetings, several major international studies, and a grant from the National Center for Advancing Translational Science. Several of his works were published in high-impact journals such as JAMA Pediatrics and featured in news outlets.
As a first-generation physician and the son of immigrant parents, Dr. Park has the lived experience to help guide others who are on a similar path. His greatest strengths include his ability to work with all types of candidates due to the diverse experiences he’s encountered in most general premed activities, including athletics, research, community service, experiences abroad, teaching, social advocacy, legislation, medical employment, etc. These experiences have allowed him to successfully match into a top-tier medical school and residency program.
Dr. Bertina H.
Creighton University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hooks is an internal medicine physician with more than 15 years of clinical experience, complemented by a strong background in mentorship, medical education, and admissions committee experience. She earned her MD from Creighton University School of Medicine after completing her undergraduate studies in biochemistry with honors at Loras College, both on full-ride academic scholarships. Dr. Hooks completed an internal medicine residency at CHI Mercy before building a career spanning hospital medicine, private practice, and executive medical leadership.
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Dr. Bertina H.
Creighton University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, OB/GYN
Education
Undergrad: Loras College
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Hooks currently serves as Medical Director of the Inpatient Division at Centene Corporation.
Dr. Hooks is an internal medicine physician with more than 15 years of clinical experience, complemented by a strong background in mentorship, medical education, and admissions committee experience. She earned her MD from Creighton University School of Medicine after completing her undergraduate studies in biochemistry with honors at Loras College, both on full-ride academic scholarships. Dr. Hooks completed an internal medicine residency at CHI Mercy before building a career spanning hospital medicine, private practice, and executive medical leadership.
As a counselor, Dr. Hooks brings years of admissions committee experience at Creighton University School of Medicine, where she evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed 100+ candidates in both medical school and residency admissions. Her guidance has helped students earn acceptances at top institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Duke, Northwestern, USC, the University of Chicago, Emory, and multiple University of California campuses.
Dr. Hooks’ career reflects a passion for both medicine and entrepreneurship. She has practiced as a hospitalist, founded a private practice specializing in medical weight loss and aesthetics, and now serves as Medical Director of the Inpatient Division at Centene Corporation. Her leadership extends beyond clinical work, through her work as a mentor at Pinnacle Business Academy, providing professional development for physicians and medical trainees alike. She is also the CEO of Phoenix Med Health PLLC.
Recognized for her dedication to student success, Dr. Hooks is committed to empowering future physicians to navigate the challenges of admissions with confidence. She takes pride in offering personalized coaching that helps students highlight their unique strengths and achieve their long-term goals, whether they’re applying to medical school or residency programs.
Dr. Bima H.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hasjim is a general surgery resident at the University of California, Irvine. He served as a UC Irvine admissions officer, where he conducted interviews, evaluated applicants, and reviewed resumes and applications. With 10+ years of coaching and admissions experience, he excels in interview prep, personal statement editing, and application guidance. Additionally, Dr. Hasjim has a strong background in academic counseling, having contributed to the development of UC Irvine's pre-medical curriculum in the biomedical department.
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Dr. Bima H.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Transplant Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
Fun Fact
Dr. Hasjim is an ardent supporter of the Seattle Mariners, Pittsburgh Steelers, and March Madness. He enjoys exploring local culinary delights and barbershops, and he even cuts his own hair, occasionally offering his barbering skills to family and friends.
Dr. Hasjim is a general surgery resident at the University of California, Irvine. He served as a UC Irvine admissions officer, where he conducted interviews, evaluated applicants, and reviewed resumes and applications. With 10+ years of coaching and admissions experience, he excels in interview prep, personal statement editing, and application guidance. Additionally, Dr. Hasjim has a strong background in academic counseling, having contributed to the development of UC Irvine's pre-medical curriculum in the biomedical department.
Dr. Hasjim has been awarded the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award and the Golden Scalpel – Resident Teacher of the Year Award, honors given by medical students. Dr. Hasjim is excited to demystify the medical and residency admissions process and work with applicants from many walks of life.
Dr. Hasjim attended college and medical school at UC Irvine and earned a Master of Science in Clinical Investigation from Northwestern University. Throughout his own journey through medicine, he realized that navigating through a career path in medicine can be complex, and he is passionate about making the medical school admissions process as transparent as possible. His dedication and outstanding performance earned him prestigious accolades such as the Excellence in Research Honors and the Chancellor's Award of Distinction.
During his undergraduate years at UC Irvine, Bima developed a proven track record of academic productivity and service to the community. For his work in research, community service, and academic achievements, he was awarded Excellence in Research Honors and the Chancellor’s Award of Distinction—given to only 28 undergraduate students out of 8,600+ students in the graduating class. When Bima matriculated into medical school at UC Irvine, he found his calling in surgery and was awarded the Dr. J. Gordon Hatfield Department of Surgery Award and the Vincent P. Carroll, Jr. Award for Outstanding Research upon graduation.
With a diverse range of academic interests and a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring, Dr. Hasjim's ability to guide applicants in articulating their passion for healthcare and personal stories is one of his greatest strengths. His passion for helping students achieve their dream schools can help anyone who feels stuck or needs extra guidance.
Dr. Hasjim is enthusiastic about clarifying the intricacies of residency admissions and assisting applicants from various backgrounds in crafting compelling applications that showcase their qualities and experiences. His goal-oriented and process-focused mindset ensures that students prioritize both measurable outcomes and continuous growth. Combining analytical thinking with creative problem-solving, he tailors innovative strategies to each applicant. With a patient and efficient approach, he ensures students fully understand each step while making the most of their time. Overall, Dr. Hasjim’s dedication to mentorship and his understanding of the challenges faced by applicants make him an invaluable asset to those pursuing a career in medicine.
Dr. Carmel Mercado
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Dr. Mercado is a board-certified ophthalmologist, bringing expertise in pediatric and comprehensive ophthalmology to her mentor and admissions consultant role. She has served as Clinical Instructor for Ophthalmology and Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Casey Eye Institute, and Head of the Diversity Committee for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Washington. In these roles, she has been involved with medical school admissions and ophthalmology residency and fellowship interviews.
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Dr. Carmel Mercado
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: MIT
Medical School: The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Mercado is a self-proclaimed super nerd and loves discussing her favorite video games and anime with anyone who shares her passion for all things geeky.
Dr. Mercado is a board-certified ophthalmologist, bringing expertise in pediatric and comprehensive ophthalmology to her mentor and admissions consultant role. She has served as Clinical Instructor for Ophthalmology and Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Casey Eye Institute, and Head of the Diversity Committee for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Washington. In these roles, she has been involved with medical school admissions and ophthalmology residency and fellowship interviews.
Dr. Mercado’s passion for mentoring and teaching began early in her academic career. As an undergraduate at MIT, she was recognized as one of 25 Burchard Scholars in her year for her outstanding achievements in the arts, humanities, social sciences, science, and engineering. Additionally, she was inducted as an MIT Class of 2009 Community Catalyst Leader for her extensive involvement in mentoring, teaching, and developing advising workshops for freshmen.
Dr. Mercado obtained her medical degree at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. During her time in medical school, she completed a research year as an international fellow at the Keio University School of Medicine. Her research project examined the history of traditional medicine in Japan and its integration into the modern Japanese medical system. This project was partly funded by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Dean’s Grant and through a scholarship from the International Chamber of Innovation, Commerce & Enterprise in Japan.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Mercado's greatest strength lies in her firsthand experience with the medical school and residency admissions process. Her insider knowledge, combined with her own success in navigating the competitive world of medical education, allows her to provide invaluable insights and guidance to her students.
Beyond her clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Mercado is a well-rounded individual with a passion for global health and the arts. She has traveled to multiple countries, including Myanmar, the Philippines, and Belize, to participate in vision screenings and to teach eye surgery and the basics of pediatric eye care as invited faculty. Additionally, she is an accomplished artist who uses her art as a medium for health literacy education and empowerment, showcasing her creativity and dedication to patient care.
Dr. Celyn B.
University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Bregio is an internal medicine resident at Duke University Hospital with over nine years of mentoring and admissions experience. Dr. Bregio has guided students to acceptance at top institutions like Northwestern, UChicago, Weill Cornell, and the Cleveland Clinic. As a member of the Student Admissions Committee at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio reviewed applications and interviewed applicants.
Undergrad: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Fun Fact
The unique spelling of Dr. Bregio's first name (pronounced seh-LEEN) is a result of the creative combination of her mom, dad, and grandma's names.
Dr. Bregio is an internal medicine resident at Duke University Hospital with over nine years of mentoring and admissions experience. Dr. Bregio has guided students to acceptance at top institutions like Northwestern, UChicago, Weill Cornell, and the Cleveland Clinic. As a member of the Student Admissions Committee at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio reviewed applications and interviewed applicants.
Dr. Bregio's educational journey began at the Honors College at Miami Dade College, where she graduated with Highest Honors and Distinction. She later transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Carolina Covenant Scholar, a distinction that ensured her a debt-free undergraduate education. At both institutions, Dr. Bregio actively participated in community service, mentorship, and research initiatives, receiving several accolades for her academic achievement and community impact. Her dedication to scientific research culminated in the completion of a senior honors thesis in chemistry, poster presentations, and publication in a peer-reviewed journal. After graduating, she spent a year as a research fellow at the National Institute of Health through an Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) Fellowship.
As a medical student at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio further cultivated her passion for research, patient care advocacy, and mentorship. Her clinical and scientific endeavors in health equity and cancer care resulted in multiple oral presentations at the national level, peer-reviewed publications, and awards for her outstanding achievements, including the Scholars in Oncology Associated Research (SOAR) Grant. She remained steadfast in her commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in medicine by mentoring underrepresented students and actively contributing to the medical school admissions process.
Dr. Bregio's leadership and dedication to admissions work led to her invitation to serve as a voting member of the admissions committee during medical school, an honor extended to only 12 students in the class. In this role, she served as a primary student interviewer during the admissions cycle and reviewed, evaluated, and presented candidates at committee meetings. Before this, she spent three years interviewing candidates and served as the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) admissions representative, leading dialogue between current and prospective URM students during interview day activities.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Bregio encourages students to break down the application timeline into manageable steps, recognizing that a systematic approach is pivotal for reaching milestones without burning out or feeling rushed. She enjoys helping students tell their stories and highlight their strengths through their personal statement narratives, providing constructive feedback, and engaging students in reflection to identify and dig deeper into underdeveloped areas. She is also proficient in Spanish.
Dr. Charles F.
Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Fang completed his residency in vascular surgery at the University of Massachusetts and now works as a wound physician at Vohra Wound Physicians in New York City. Dr. Fang has extensive research experience, having authored three publications and exploring his passion for vascular biology.
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Dr. Charles F.
Duke University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Vascular Surgery, Wound Care
Education
Undergrad: Duke University Pratt School of Engineering
Medical School:Duke University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
In addition to his professional commitments, Charles is a loving husband and father. He enjoys spending quality time with his wife and daughter, exploring the vibrant city life of New York.
Dr. Fang completed his residency in vascular surgery at the University of Massachusetts and now works as a wound physician at Vohra Wound Physicians in New York City. Dr. Fang has extensive research experience, having authored three publications and exploring his passion for vascular biology.
Dr. Fang began his academic journey in biomedical engineering at Duke University Pratt School of Engineering before earning his medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine. His academic excellence in college led to his induction into the Tau Beta Pi engineering honors society.
While pursuing his medical degree, Charles developed a keen interest in vascular biology, leading him to further explore this area through extensive research on the VEGFR2 receptor pathway. His valuable contribution was acknowledged with the prestigious Surgical Skills Award and the Eugene Stead Research Scholarship. Following his passion for vascular biology, he completed his residency training in Vascular Surgery at the University of Massachusetts.
Today, Charles applies his knowledge and skills in the New York City area, where he has built a successful career as a wound physician. His dedication to his field, combined with his rigorous academic background, makes him a source of knowledge for aspiring medical students. As an admissions coach, he is committed to sharing his insights and experiences to help students navigate the complex medical school admissions process.
Dr. Daniel R.
Albany Medical College
Master Advisor
Dr. Rodriguez is an emergency medicine resident at AdventHealth Orlando with a passion for mentorship, medical education, and supporting students through the medical school and residency application process. He brings firsthand experience from his time on admissions interview teams at both Albany Medical College and his residency program, where he’s conducted many applicant interviews and gained invaluable insight into what sets successful applicants apart.
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Dr. Daniel R.
Albany Medical College
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine, Rheumatological Illnesses, Critical Care Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Graduate School: University of South Florida
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Rodriguez enjoys playing the acoustic guitar, reading, gourmet cooking, and traveling the world, exploring every hole-in-the-wall restaurant he can find. He is also an avid outdoorsman with a love of mountain climbing and skiing.
Dr. Rodriguez is an emergency medicine resident at AdventHealth Orlando with a passion for mentorship, medical education, and supporting students through the medical school and residency application process. He brings firsthand experience from his time on admissions interview teams at both Albany Medical College and his residency program, where he’s conducted many applicant interviews and gained invaluable insight into what sets successful applicants apart.
Dr. Rodriguez’s educational journey began at the University of Central Florida. Initially intent on graduating with a business degree and entering the business world with his father, life had other plans for him. He was thrust into the medical world as a patient. Finding himself spending more time in the hospital than in the classroom, he began to fall in love with the field of medicine and knew that this was the path for him.
Dr. Rodriguez went on to the University of South Florida to earn his Master’s degree in anatomy, graduating as the Valedictorian of his class. Afterwards, he chose to attend Albany Medical College. While attending medical school, he was involved with admissions, interviewing applicants, as well as hosting forums for aspiring medical students. His experience provided him with insider knowledge of the key ingredients necessary to successfully navigate medical school interviews. . He continues to be involved in admissions in his residency program by working with medical students on shift and interviewing candidates for the matching process.
Dr. Rodriguez’s passion for counseling and mentoring stems from his own medical admissions journey. As a first-generation physician, he had no prior experience or close mentors who could guide him through the process and provide key and helpful advice—he had to learn the ins and outs of the application process alone. Now, as a practicing physician, he has a passion and strong desire to give back and help others in navigating the incredibly complex medical applications process. He enjoys serving as the mentor he wished he had during his own journey. He also finds a profound sense of fulfillment in helping others in their own journeys.
What sets Dr. Rodriguez’s approach apart as a consultant is his personalized approach. He holds a deep belief that individuality is key to getting into medical school and becoming a successful physician. He works with a small handful of students at a time, devoting personalized attention, dedicating time to truly get to know them as individuals, and discovering what makes them unique. He then goes on to help students craft tailored plans, build strong narratives, and hone their interview skills.
Each session with Dr. Rodriguez is focused on clear goals while remaining adaptable to changing circumstances. He allows students to guide the conversation by choosing the areas they wish to explore, ensuring they receive the appropriate resources and guidance to address their questions. His journey and passion place him in the unique position to serve as a motivational mentor and guide to the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Rodriguez has a passion for emergency medicine, a field which he views not only as the front lines of medicine but also a diverse field where one must constantly be vigilant for their patients. He finds a profound satisfaction in being able to care for individuals from all walks of life and with all manner of medical problems, be it a simple influenza infection or the reversal of cardiac arrest.
Dr. David Y.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Yoo is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic and orbital reconstructive surgery. He has extensive admissions experience, including serving on a residency selection committee for 17+ years, acting as Ophthalmology Residency Director for over nine years at Loyola University Medical Center, and teaching as a professor at Loyola for 15+ years.
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Dr. David Y.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Yoo enjoys staying up-to-date on the latest movies, Korean dramas, and anime.
Dr. Yoo is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic and orbital reconstructive surgery. He has extensive admissions experience, including serving on a residency selection committee for 17+ years, acting as Ophthalmology Residency Director for over nine years at Loyola University Medical Center, and teaching as a professor at Loyola for 15+ years.
Dr. Yoo earned a BS in communication studies and disorders from Northwestern University before graduating with an MD from the Feinberg School of Medicine. He completed an internship and residency at McGaw Medical Center, followed by a fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital. Dr. Yoo currently practices at Aurora Eye Clinic Ltd.
In addition to residency selection committee experience, Dr. Yoo spent many years on the Loyola University Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine admissions committee for medical applicants. With more than 17 years of experience mentoring students at the college, medical school, and residency levels, Dr. Yoo has gained insight into the full spectrum of medical education admissions.
Dr. Yoo takes a personalized approach to counseling, aspiring physicians have the tools necessary to reach their goals. He believes in getting to know each candidate as an individual to work toward the best possible outcomes for their medical school or residency applications.
Dr. Deanna P.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dr. Plewa is a resident physician at New York-Presbyterian of Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine. While attending the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, she mentored first-year students, helping them with time management, study tips, and tutoring in the anatomy lab.
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Dr. Deanna P.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Interests and Specialization
General Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Tennessee
Med School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Plewa finds her passion in the world of science. However, she does have a secret musical indulgence: playing the ukulele. She laughingly admits that she hopes her loyal dog is the only one who listens to her strumming.
Dr. Plewa is a resident physician at New York-Presbyterian of Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine. While attending the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, she mentored first-year students, helping them with time management, study tips, and tutoring in the anatomy lab.
Dr. Plewa's educational journey began at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she graduated with a BS in kinesiology. This foundation in the study of human movement and function provided her with an interesting perspective on health and wellness that would later inform her approach to patient care. After completing her undergraduate degree, Dr. Plewa attended medical school at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine—Carolinas Campus. As a medical student, she demonstrated her commitment to mentoring and supporting her peers by mentoring first-year students.
Upon graduating from medical school, Dr. Plewa matched at New York-Presbyterian Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine for her general surgery residency, bringing her back to her roots in the Northeast. Her dedication to her craft and her leadership skills were quickly recognized within the program, leading to her nomination as a member of the Residency Council. In this role, she served as a liaison between the residents and administration, working to improve resident life and ensure that her colleagues had the support they needed to thrive.
Before pursuing her medical career, Dr. Plewa worked as a special education inclusion aid in a high school setting. In this role, she assisted students in keeping up with their coursework by hosting small group teaching sessions and tailoring her approach to meet each student's learning needs. This experience taught her the value of personalized attention and the importance of adapting to individual learning styles to foster success.
As a coach, Dr. Plewa brings her warm, approachable demeanor and her wealth of experience in mentoring and individualized support to help aspiring medical students achieve their goals. She understands the challenges and triumphs of the medical school journey firsthand and is committed to providing her students with the guidance, tools, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Dr. Derek W.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Wu graduated with an MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, and completed his anesthesiology residency at the University of California, San Diego. He served as an application reviewer and admissions ambassador at UC Irvine during medical school, and as a UCSD Anesthesiology program interviewer during residency. Today, Dr. Wu serves as Assistant Chief of Anesthesia, Medical Director of Outpatient Surgery, and Director of Procedural Sedation at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa.
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Dr. Derek W.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Berkeley
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Wu enjoys life in Sonoma County with his wife and son. He is passionate about fitness and staying active, whether it’s lifting, hiking, or spending time outdoors. He also enjoys traveling and discovering new local food spots.
Dr. Wu graduated with an MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, and completed his anesthesiology residency at the University of California, San Diego. He served as an application reviewer and admissions ambassador at UC Irvine during medical school, and as a UCSD Anesthesiology program interviewer during residency. Today, Dr. Wu serves as Assistant Chief of Anesthesia, Medical Director of Outpatient Surgery, and Director of Procedural Sedation at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa.
Dr. Wu earned his undergraduate degree at the University of California, Berkeley, where he double majored in psychology and biochemistry. After graduation, he spent four years away from formal training, working in roles that included high-level MCAT instruction and pharmaceutical clinical research. During this time, he contributed to Phase III clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease biologics and advanced into a management role—experiences that sharpened his scientific knowledge and leadership skills, even before starting his career in medicine.
During medical school, Dr. Wu served as Class President of his cohort. During residency, he was elected Chief Resident for multiple years. Now serving in multiple leadership roles through the Permanente Medical Group, Inc., Dr. Wu oversees clinical operations, drives quality improvement initiatives, advances physician and healthcare worker education, and leads physician recruitment and development. He has built strong hiring pipelines with residency programs such as UCSD and Stanford, and frequently lectures residents on professional growth, regional anesthesia, and career planning.
As a coach, Dr. Wu blends strategic insight with empathy, drawing from his experiences as an applicant, Chief Resident, board-certified anesthesiologist, and physician recruiter. He helps applicants refine their personal statements, craft cohesive narratives, and excel in interviews with authenticity and confidence.
Dr. Wu has firsthand knowledge of the application and acceptance process at multiple levels, including medical school and residency, where he served on admission committees evaluating candidates. His greatest strength is his ability to highlight each student’s individuality while equipping them with the tools to succeed in highly competitive admissions processes. He has a unique 360-degree perspective on the entire process of becoming a doctor, from applying to medicine to now practicing as a board-certified anesthesiologist. Dr. Wu’s balance of professional expertise, mentorship, and personal warmth makes him a trusted guide for applicants navigating the journey to medical school and residency.
Dr. Dike Udensi
Tufts University School of Medicine
Dr. Udensi is a resident physician at Copper University Hospital. He received an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine. Born in Nigeria and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dr. Udensi's background has shaped his perspective and ability to connect with people from various walks of life.
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Dr. Dike Udensi
Tufts University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Child & Adolescent Psychology
Education
Undergrad: University of Connecticut
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Udensi is the middle child of five siblings and is part of the first generation in his family to complete college. He also loves to dance and sing, especially late-night karaoke with friends.
Dr. Udensi is a resident physician at Copper University Hospital. He received an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine. Born in Nigeria and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dr. Udensi's background has shaped his perspective and ability to connect with people from various walks of life.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Udensi completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Connecticut. Despite working full-time while pursuing his education, he excelled academically, earning a spot on the dean's list over consecutive semesters. Dr. Udensi completed an intensive internship at Yale University School of Medicine to further prepare for his medical school application process. This experience gave him valuable insights into the admissions process and the expectations of top-tier medical schools, which he now shares with students.
As a coach, Dr. Udensi's primary goal is to build a strong bond with students. He understands that each individual's path to medicine is different, and he works closely with them to develop personalized strategies for success. Drawing from his own experiences navigating the medical school application process and his current journey through residency interviews and final rotations, he provides valuable guidance and support to help his clients achieve their dreams.
Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Dr. Udensi enjoys a wide range of activities that contribute to his well-rounded personality. He is passionate about weightlifting, tennis, meditating, martial arts, anime, BBQ, and engaging in various communal activities with his friends. These diverse interests not only help him maintain a healthy work-life balance but also enable him to relate to clients with different backgrounds and aspirations.
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine
Dr. Lee received his MD from the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine and is pursuing an advanced anesthesiology residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital. While attending the Zucker School of Medicine, he served as an interviewer for the BS/MD Combined 4+4 Program and MD (hybrid traditional-MMI) interviewer and committee voting member.
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Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Fun Fact
Dr. Lee was a saber fencer for eight years and was on the Division III NCAA Men’s Fencing team at Vassar College.
Dr. Lee received his MD from the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine and is pursuing an advanced anesthesiology residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital. While attending the Zucker School of Medicine, he served as an interviewer for the BS/MD Combined 4+4 Program and MD (hybrid traditional-MMI) interviewer and committee voting member.
Before medical school, Dr. Lee graduated with departmental honors in Biology from Vassar College, where he was also Captain of the EMS agency. During his gap year, he worked as a research assistant at Northwell Health in Thoracic Surgery, managing a lung cancer database and publishing a paper on the benefits of robotic surgery for lung cancer. During his last year in medical school, he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for excellence in academic performance and leadership. He will also be graduating with a Certificate of Special Proficiency in Medical Ultrasound.
Dr. Lee has always had a passion for medical education and helping students achieve their goals. He has mentored numerous pre-medical students at all points in the process of preparing to apply to medical school, from first-year college students to set them up favorably for the future to students actively in the application process. He specializes in a holistic approach to help students display their strengths beyond their academic records or metrics, allowing medical school admissions committees to fully appreciate their individuality.
Dr. Lee also brings first-hand insight to the CASPer test, having taken it as both a pre-medical and medical student, recently scoring in the top quartile. With Inspira Advantage, he hopes to continue helping even more students on their journey to becoming a physician.
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Director of Advising
Dr. Lee is an anesthesiology resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. He earned his MD from the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he served on the admissions committee and as an interviewer for the MD program and BS/MD Combined 4+4 program. With years of mentorship experience, Dr Lee brings valuable insight to medical and residency admissions.
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Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Fun Fact
Dr. Lee has served on both the MD and BS/MD admissions committees at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.
Dr. Lee is an anesthesiology resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. He earned his MD from the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he served on the admissions committee and as an interviewer for the MD program and BS/MD Combined 4+4 program. With years of mentorship experience, Dr Lee brings valuable insight to medical and residency admissions.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Lee graduated with departmental honors in biology from Vassar College, where he was also Captain of Vassar College Emergency Medical Services. He also received the Bruce Gillman Award for fencing. During his gap year, Dr. Lee worked as a research assistant at Northwell Health in thoracic surgery, managing a lung cancer database and published a paper studying the benefits of robotic surgery for lung cancer.
During his last year in medical school, Dr. Lee was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for excellence in academic performance and leadership. He also graduated with a certificate of special proficiency in medical ultrasound. He was also awarded 2nd place for his poster presentation at the Northwell Academic Competition. Dr. Lee completed his intern year in internal medicine at North Shore University Hospital/Long Island Jewish Medical Center, where he was recognized as Preliminary Intern of the Year.
Dr. Lee has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and Innovations. His work spans topics from robotic surgery to COVID-19 dermatologic manifestations and transfusion-related outcomes in cardiac surgery patients.
Dr. Lee is passionate about medical education and helping students achieve their goals. He has mentored numerous pre-medical students in applying to medical school and is heavily involved in residency mentorship and advising. Students Dr. Lee has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, and SUNY Downstate.
As a coach, Dr. Lee specializes in taking a holistic approach to help students display their unique strengths beyond their academic record or metrics to allow admissions committees to fully appreciate an applicant’s qualities.
Dr. Femi O.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Director of Advising
Dr. Oyewole is a physician, educator, and admissions advisor with years of medical education and mentorship experience. He graduated from the Icahn School of Medicine (ISMMS), where he served on the admissions committee as an application screener and interviewer. Dr. Oyewole has mentored countless students in application strategy, interview preparation, and school selection, helping students gain acceptance to medical school and match into residency.
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Dr. Femi O.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Fun Fact
When he’s not coaching applicants or refining his own projects, Dr. Oyewole enjoys electronic music production, gaming, and exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and medicine.
Dr. Oyewole is a physician, educator, and admissions advisor with years of medical education and mentorship experience. He graduated from the Icahn School of Medicine (ISMMS), where he served on the admissions committee as an application screener and interviewer. Dr. Oyewole has mentored countless students in application strategy, interview preparation, and school selection, helping students gain acceptance to medical school and match into residency.
Before attending the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dr. Oyewole graduated with a BS in biochemistry & molecular biology with a minor in mathematics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. There, he competed in NCAA Division I Football with the Minutemen.
During his medical training, Dr. Oyewole was an integral part of the medical school admissions committee at Mount Sinai, where he reviewed and evaluated hundreds of applications, helping to refine admissions criteria and identify top candidates. His experience has given him unique insight into what makes an applicant stand out and how to craft a compelling narrative that aligns with an institution’s mission and values. As a Senior Coordinating Teaching Assistant in Anatomy, Dr. Oyewole played a pivotal role in integrating virtual anatomy software during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning him the Excellence in Teaching Award from ISMMS.
Dr. Oyewole’s dedication to mentorship continued throughout his residency at Stanford Health Care, where he treated patients in high-pressure emergency settings and mentored medical students rotating through the Emergency Department, guiding them through clinical decision-making, application strategies, and residency interviews. Students Dr. Oyewole has coached have been accepted to prestigious medical schools such as Duke, Columbia, ISMMS, NYU, Tufts, and Stanford Health Care for residency.
Dr. Oyewole’s approach to admissions coaching is highly personalized and strategic. He understands that no two applicants are the same and works closely with students to highlight their unique strengths, ensuring their applications tell a cohesive and compelling story. His greatest strengths lie in his ability to break down complex ideas into digestible concepts and to help students craft a compelling narrative from their personal and academic journeys, skills honed through years of teaching and mentoring. Whether crafting a standout personal statement, preparing for high-stakes interviews, or navigating school selection, Dr. Oyewole equips students with the tools and confidence they need to succeed.
Beyond his work in medical education, Dr. Oyewole has a diverse range of interests. He is an avid skier and snowboarder and currently works as a ski instructor in Lake Tahoe. He is also passionate about content creation, producing educational videos on ADHD, medical education, and productivity.
Dr. Oyewole brings a well-rounded and forward-thinking perspective to admissions consulting. His background as a physician, educator, and mentor—coupled with his firsthand experience in medical school admissions—makes him a valuable resource for students seeking a competitive edge in the application process.
Dr. Gene S.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Saltzberg is an emergency medicine physician and educator with over 40 years of clinical, medical education, and admissions experience. His expertise in medical admissions is unparalleled, with 35 years as a medical school admissions committee member and interviewer at the Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, evaluating and interviewing thousands of applicants. He has also served as an undergraduate pre-med advisor at Northwestern University.
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Dr. Gene S.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Medical School: Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Fun Fact
Dr. Saltzberg’s interests include biking, hiking, and golf.
Dr. Saltzberg is an emergency medicine physician and educator with over 40 years of clinical, medical education, and admissions experience. His expertise in medical admissions is unparalleled, with 35 years as a medical school admissions committee member and interviewer at the Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, evaluating and interviewing thousands of applicants. He has also served as an undergraduate pre-med advisor at Northwestern University.
Dr. Saltzberg holds a BA in psychology, graduating cum laude from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and earned his MD from the Chicago Medical School. Dr. Saltzberg completed his pediatrics residency at Northwestern University’s Children’s Memorial Hospital and later pursued advanced training in emergency medicine at the University of Nevada, marking his transition into the field at the very birth of emergency medicine.
Dr. Saltzberg has served as an associate professor at a highly ranked medical school and has been a dedicated medical educator for decades. He has held significant leadership roles, including Chief of Staff at his hospital for 22 years. He is a Fellow and Founding Member of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, where he actively contributes to the Physician Wellness and Government Affairs Committees. His commitment to service extends beyond the hospital, as he has volunteered as a medical advisor to Lamb’s Farm since 1987, improving the quality of life for 160 adults with cognitive disabilities.
Currently, Dr. Saltzberg is an Associate Professor at the Chicago Medical School’s Department of Emergency Medicine. A published author, he recently co-authored “An Ethical Analysis of the Arguments For and Against Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates” in the Journal of Emergency Medicine.
Dr. Saltzberg’s mentorship has helped students gain acceptance to top institutions, including the Chicago Medical School, Boston College, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Rush University Medical School, and Loyola University School of Medicine, among others. He is known for his holistic, student-centered approach to coaching, supporting a diverse range of applicants.
Dr. Hari A.
McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Director of Advising
Dr. Athreya is a family medicine physician, mentor, and leader with extensive clinical and medical education experience. He is the Medical Director and Market Lead at Crossover Health, has interned with the World Health Organization, and volunteered with AmeriCorps, providing disaster relief and community support. With years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Athreya is a knowledgeable guide for students navigating the medical school or residency admissions processes.
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Dr. Hari A.
McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Family Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Rice University Medical School: McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Fun Fact
Dr. Athreya took a gap year before medical school to work abroad in Ghana and India.
Dr. Athreya is a family medicine physician, mentor, and leader with extensive clinical and medical education experience. He is the Medical Director and Market Lead at Crossover Health, has interned with the World Health Organization, and volunteered with AmeriCorps, providing disaster relief and community support. With years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Athreya is a knowledgeable guide for students navigating the medical school or residency admissions processes.
Dr. Athreya earned his BA in kinesiology and exercise science from Rice University before pursuing both an MPH and MD at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He has completed multiple prestigious fellowships, including the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, Population Health Postdoctoral Fellowship through the University of Texas System, and the Preventive Medicine Fellowship at Emory University. He completed his family medicine residency at the University of Chicago, where he served as Chief Resident.
With a passion for guiding aspiring healthcare professionals, Dr. Athreya successfully mentored numerous students and professionals on how to navigate the rigorous journey to medical school and secure placements in highly competitive residency programs. Drawing on his own experience, years of admissions experience in a decision-making capacity, and expertise in family medicine, Dr. Athreya is committed to providing personalized advice on application strategies, interview preparation, and the development of strong, competitive candidacies.
Dr. Athreya’s approachable and supportive mentorship style makes him a trusted resource for students navigating medical school admissions and residency matching. Flexible and adaptable, he fosters a collaborative, conversational atmosphere where plans evolve based on students' individual needs. Additionally, his efficiency, creativity, and attention to detail ensure that students put forth the strongest possible applications.
Dr. Harshini T.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Turner is a dual-trained medical oncologist and pediatrician with 15+ years of clinical experience and 20+ years of leadership in global pharmaceutical research and oncology drug development. Dr. Turner has contributed to groundbreaking work in cancer therapeutics and is a published author in her field. With nearly 30 years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Turner has served as Admissions Screener, Admissions Coordinator, and Admissions Director for several schools in the U.S., U.K., EU, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
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Dr. Harshini T.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Medical Oncology
Education
Undergrad: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Medical School: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Turner has more than two decades of leadership in global pharmaceutical research.
Dr. Turner is a dual-trained medical oncologist and pediatrician with 15+ years of clinical experience and 20+ years of leadership in global pharmaceutical research and oncology drug development. Dr. Turner has contributed to groundbreaking work in cancer therapeutics and is a published author in her field. With nearly 30 years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Turner has served as Admissions Screener, Admissions Coordinator, and Admissions Director for several schools in the U.S., U.K., EU, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
Dr. Turner holds an MBBS/MD from the University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London. She completed her advanced training in pediatrics and infectious disease, with a fellowship in medical oncology through programs at the University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan, McGill University, and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
Dr. Turner brings 29 years of mentorship and admissions consulting experience, working with students across the globe. Her approach blends academic rigor with compassionate guidance, helping international and domestic students gain admission to top-tier medical institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Duke, the University of North Carolina, McGill, University College Hospital London, and many more.
Dr. Turner has served on admissions committees in the U.S., UK, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and the EU in roles ranging from assistant screener to Director of Admissions. Her insider perspective, paired with her deep understanding of both the academic and healthcare landscapes, makes her an invaluable advisor for students applying to medical school, residency, and international universities.
With years of experience as a Senior Medical Director, Dr. Turner’s passions are new drug development to cure cancer and also to support prospective students on their paths toward becoming physicians. Dr Turner's passion is to continue to make a difference in the lives of people she comes in contact with.
Dr. Henry B.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Dr. Bair is an ophthalmology resident physician at Wills Eye Hospital and has mentored students for over 10 years. He is the author of more than 80 articles on narrative medicine, healthcare delivery innovation, and ophthalmology, which have appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Academic Medicine, and the Journal of Hospital Medicine, among others.
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Dr. Henry B.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: Stanford University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Bair's undergraduate thesis was on illuminated manuscripts produced in Ireland between the 7th and the 11th centuries—a subject that rarely arises in conversation but one that he is always happy to discuss!
Dr. Bair is an ophthalmology resident physician at Wills Eye Hospital and has mentored students for over 10 years. He is the author of more than 80 articles on narrative medicine, healthcare delivery innovation, and ophthalmology, which have appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Academic Medicine, and the Journal of Hospital Medicine, among others.
Dr. Bair received a BS in biochemistry and a BA in medieval studies from Rice University and an MD/MBA from Stanford University as a Knight-Hennessy Scholar. He brings a strong commitment to integrating innovative technologies and humanistic approaches to improve patient-centered healthcare delivery.
Dr. Bair's professional journey is marked by his dedication to research focused on applying cutting-edge technologies to improve the efficiency, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare. His contributions include establishing telehealth networks for eye care in rural Taiwan and developing diagnostic and surgical devices for treating orbital trauma in low-resource settings. These achievements have resulted in multiple patents and demonstrate his passion for leveraging innovation to address healthcare disparities and improve patient outcomes.
In addition to his impactful research, Dr. Bair is deeply invested in medical education and fostering meaningful patient-clinician relationships through cultural competency, compassionate communication, and reflective practice. He has applied this passion at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he designed and taught courses on healthcare leadership, digital health, and patient communication strategies, particularly in the context of serious illness. By sharing his expertise and insights with the next generation of healthcare professionals, Dr. Bair is actively shaping the future of medicine.
As a recognized voice in the medical community, Dr. Bair has made significant contributions to the field through his creative endeavors and thought leadership. He is the creator and co-host of "The Doctor's Art," a Webby Award-winning podcast that explores the meaning and purpose of medicine, and his TEDx talk on humanistic medicine has garnered widespread attention, becoming one of the most-viewed talks of 2023. As a writer who has published creative nonfiction and a podcaster who highlights the personal journeys of clinicians, he has developed a keen sense of storytelling and believes that crafting a strong story is key to creating captivating applications.
Dr. Bair's perspective is further enriched by his upbringing in Taiwan, working across several cultures, and studying the humanities (medieval philology and art history). As a result, he is passionate about helping applicants of diverse backgrounds piece together compelling personal narratives, empowering them to become compassionate, innovative, and patient-centered healthcare leaders.
Dr. Hesham H.
Ross University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hassan is a double board-certified physician who earned an MD from Ross University School of Medicine. He holds two master’s degrees: an MPH from Chamberlain University and an MS in biology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Hassan completed his internal medicine residency at HCA Healthcare followed by fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he served as an interviewer for the admissions committee and later joined the faculty as an assistant professor.
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Dr. Hesham H.
Ross University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Care
Education
Undergrad: The University of Texas at San Antonio
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Graduate School: Chamberlain University, University of Texas at San Antonio
Fun Fact
Dr. Hassan enjoys philosophical debates, playing piano, exploring fantasy role-playing games, and experimenting with new plant-based recipes. He also has a deep love for poetry, storytelling, and tending to his ever-growing collection of houseplants.
Dr. Hassan is a double board-certified physician who earned an MD from Ross University School of Medicine. He holds two master’s degrees: an MPH from Chamberlain University and an MS in biology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Hassan completed his internal medicine residency at HCA Healthcare followed by fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he served as an interviewer for the admissions committee and later joined the faculty as an assistant professor.
At HCA Healthcare, Dr. Hassan was the Chief Resident of his internal medicine training program. At UAB, he served as the medical student coordinator for the Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, combining his love of teaching with a deep commitment to mentorship. Dr. Hassan has trained medical students, residents, and fellows—developing curricula that integrate narrative medicine, ethics, and communication skills into serious illness care. He is also the creator of a popular review series to help fellows prepare for hospice and palliative board exams. Dr. Hassan’s research has been published in the HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine and the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.
Dr. Hassan’s strengths as an admissions coach lie in his ability to connect authentically with applicants, helping them identify their core values, personal narratives, and goals with clarity and confidence. With a keen eye for structure and storytelling, he helps students craft compelling personal statements and navigate the admissions journey with insight and intentionality.
As a coach, Dr. Hassan is deeply passionate about working with future clinicians and public health leaders, including those from non-traditional or underrepresented backgrounds. His coaching philosophy is rooted in empathy, strategic thinking, and a belief that every applicant has a powerful story to tell.
Dr. Hye-Jin C.
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Clark is a resident physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) at Stanford University. She has eight years of admissions committee and mentorship experience, including serving on the Admissions and Interview Committee at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and acting as a medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R program.
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Dr. Hye-Jin C.
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Education
Undergrad: Barnard College of Columbia University
Medical School: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Clark is an avid runner, triathlete, and podcast enthusiast. She has been featured on the Medicus Podcast to discuss her “Wonder Woman Passion Project,” an initiative that spotlights “Wonder Humans” in healthcare and beyond.
Dr. Clark is a resident physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) at Stanford University. She has eight years of admissions committee and mentorship experience, including serving on the Admissions and Interview Committee at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and acting as a medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R program.
Dr. Clark completed her undergraduate degree in neuroscience & behavior at Barnard College of Columbia University, graduating Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude. From there, she pursued her medical degree at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and served as Class President.
During this time, Dr. Clark also worked as a Global Cause Partnerships and Community Fundraising Coordinator for UNICEF USA, furthering her passion for serving diverse populations. She completed her preliminary intern year at California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) before starting her PM&R residency at Stanford. She now holds leadership roles in multiple national organizations, including the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R), the Association of Academic Physiatrists (AAP), the World Academy of Pain Medicine United (WAPMU), the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society (IPSIS), and the Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management (WIPM).
A dedicated researcher and educator, Dr. Clark has authored peer-reviewed articles on pain management, AI in medicine, and musculoskeletal ultrasound, with publications in journals such as Current Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Reports, Journal of Medical Artificial Intelligence, and Cureus Journal of Medical Science. As a resident physician, she has a passion for interventional pain management, performing arts medicine, and musculoskeletal and sports medicine.
Dr. Clark also devotes significant time to medical education, serving as the medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R Program and participating in various committees that focus on admissions and recruitment. Her nearly decade-long mentorship experience includes guiding students from diverse backgrounds toward acceptance at medical schools and residency programs at Loyola, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, the Mayo Clinic, and Mount Sinai.
Dr. Clark’s approach to admissions coaching is both structured and friendly, emphasizing compelling storytelling and strategic application building. She excels at helping applicants navigate primary and secondary applications, interview preparation (including MMI), and essay development, ensuring each applicant’s journey and motivations are clearly communicated.
Outside of her clinical and educational pursuits, Dr. Clark enjoys a lifelong passion for performing arts. She has performed on the Tony Awards stage and remains active in dance and musical theater, which informs her holistic perspective on patient care—particularly for performing artists.
Through her clinical practice, research, and mentorship, Dr. Clark aims to empower future healthcare professionals to confidently pursue their goals in medicine while maintaining her commitment to compassionate patient care.
Dr. Jack W.
Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Webb graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas at Dallas with a BS in biology. He was part of the inaugural class at Dell Medical School, where the acceptance rate was less than 1%. Taking advantage of Dell Med's accelerated curriculum, Dr. Webb also earned an MPH. He has extensive experience coaching numerous science disciplines and mentoring high school, undergraduate, and medical students, and residents.
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Dr. Jack W.
Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Interests and Specialization
Radiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Fun Fact
Dr. Webb is a skilled drummer with over 16 years of experience. He particularly enjoys playing rock, funk, punk, and metal drums.
Dr. Webb graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas at Dallas with a BS in biology. He was part of the inaugural class at Dell Medical School, where the acceptance rate was less than 1%. Taking advantage of Dell Med's accelerated curriculum, Dr. Webb also earned an MPH. He has extensive experience coaching numerous science disciplines and mentoring high school, undergraduate, and medical students, and residents.
Following medical school, Dr. Webb matched into the highly competitive integrated vascular surgery residency at UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas. He completed two years in this program, gaining valuable surgical experience. Dr. Webb took a position as a research fellow at UT Southwestern, further expanding his medical knowledge and research skills. However, recognizing his evolving interests, Dr. Webb made the courageous decision to change his career path and pursue radiology.
Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Webb has maintained a strong commitment to mentorship for those at every stage in their medical education journeys, from high school to residency. This passion for mentorship is a core part of his professional identity, and he plans to continue this as an active component of his career.
Dr. Webb's background as a first-generation college graduate from a blue-collar environment gives him a special perspective on the challenges faced by many aspiring medical professionals. Having navigated the path to medical school without familial guidance, he deeply empathizes with those seeking direction and is committed to providing comprehensive support to students throughout the admissions process.
With his diverse medical experience, academic achievements, and genuine passion for mentorship, Dr. Webb is exceptionally well-equipped to guide aspiring medical students through the complex and competitive medical school application process. His personal journey of resilience and adaptability in pursuing his true calling in medicine serves as an inspiring example for those he mentors.
Dr. Jacqueline C.
Washington University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Chen is a gastroenterologist practicing in Dallas, Texas. She earned a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and loved the school so much that she stayed for medical school, residency, and fellowship. Dr. Chen was selected as one of six Chief Residents, serving on the admissions committee as an interviewer. With a decade of expertise, she has guided numerous students through medical school and residency application building.
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Dr. Jacqueline C.
Washington University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Chen speaks English and Mandarin, and her mentoring style is flexible, friendly, and goal-oriented.
Dr. Chen is a gastroenterologist practicing in Dallas, Texas. She earned a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and loved the school so much that she stayed for medical school, residency, and fellowship. Dr. Chen was selected as one of six Chief Residents, serving on the admissions committee as an interviewer. With a decade of expertise, she has guided numerous students through medical school and residency application building.
Dr. Chen earned her BA in biology and anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis, graduating magna cum laude with a 3.91 GPA. During this time, she served as the WUSTL Pre-Med Society's President and a resident advisor.
Dr. Chen then attended Washington University School of Medicine on multiple merit-based scholarships, including the Waltke Memorial Scholarship, the Scholars in Medicine Academic Scholarship, and the Harrison’s Academic Scholarship.
After graduating from medical school, Dr. Chen went on to finish her internal medicine residency, serving as Chief Resident, and completed a gastroenterology fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis/Barnes Jewish Hospital, where she received the Thomas and Mary Eckert Fellowship Clinical Research Fund and was honored as a Fellow of the Year at the John Cochran Veterans Administration Medical Center. Dr. Chen now specializes in diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, focusing on colon cancer screening and prevention, including endoscopy and colonoscopy.
From an early start as a high-achieving student, Dr. Chen discovered her passion for mentorship by tutoring peers and leading student groups. Throughout her fellowship, she continued advising students on medical school and residency applications, drawing on her own successes.
As a former admissions committee member at Washington University in St. Louis, she offers invaluable insider insight into the admissions process. She is dedicated to helping applicants present their best selves in the competitive admissions process for medical school, residency, and beyond, tailoring her guidance to each individual. Dr. Chen finds great fulfillment in supporting students as they work toward their professional aspirations.
Dr. Jasmine L.
The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela is a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she is pursuing a dual general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship program. As a former MMI interviewer for the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and group interviewer at her residency program, Dr. Liu-Zarzuela provides expert insights to students navigating medical school and residency admissions.
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Dr. Jasmine L.
The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Education
Undergrad: The University of Texas at Austin
Graduate School: The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has helped medical students match with 25+ psychiatry residencies across the country, from coast to coast.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela is a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she is pursuing a dual general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship program. As a former MMI interviewer for the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and group interviewer at her residency program, Dr. Liu-Zarzuela provides expert insights to students navigating medical school and residency admissions.
Her academic journey began at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned three BA degrees in Plan II Honors, psychology, and music. She then pursued her medical education at the University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine, obtaining an MD and MPH with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has garnered numerous accolades, including the Association of Women Psychiatrists Leah J. Dickstein Award, the Texas Medical Association Lone Star Caucus Scholarship, and the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Fellowship. Her research contributions have been published in esteemed journals such as JAACAP Connect and the Journal of Affective Disorders Reports, focusing on adolescent mental health, social media's impact on mental well-being, and the efficacy of psychiatric interventions in primary care settings.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela's commitment to advancing healthcare extends beyond her clinical work. She has played a pivotal role in shaping policy through her involvement as an ardent advocate with the Texas Medical Association and American Medical Association, having played a key role in the acceptance of numerous resolutions.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela's approach to mentorship is characterized by her attention to detail, responsiveness, and ability to tailor her guidance to each student's needs. Students she has coached have been accepted to multiple medical schools, including Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Cornell, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Baylor, UT Southwestern, and others. Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has also supported numerous students who have matched with psychiatry residencies at Harvard McLean, Yale, Columbia, Baylor, UT Southwestern, UChicago, and several other programs.
Her diverse background and non-traditional experiences make her particularly adept at supporting students from all walks of life, including those from underrepresented communities, non-traditional applicants, and students facing various challenges. Dr. Liu-Zarzuela excels in guiding students through the complex application process, helping them craft compelling personal statements and prepare for rigorous interviews. Her counseling sessions are focused on motivation and goal-setting, tailored to meet each student's needs.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela remains committed to her dual passions of psychiatric care and medical education. Her dedication to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals, her clinical expertise, and her research acumen position her as a rising leader in psychiatry and medical mentorship.
Dr. Jenna H.
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Harowitz is a pediatric neurology clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. She attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate education before graduating with an MD from the Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Harowitz served on the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, evaluating hundreds of applications and interviewing prospective students.
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Dr. Jenna H.
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics, Child Neurology
Education
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Harowitz’s research has been published in numerous journals, including the Journal of the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Neuroimmune Pharmacology.
Dr. Harowitz is a pediatric neurology clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. She attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate education before graduating with an MD from the Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Harowitz served on the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, evaluating hundreds of applications and interviewing prospective students.
Dr. Harowitz graduated summa cum laude with a BA in neuroscience (biological basis of behavior) and minors in chemistry and psychology. During her time at Penn, she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. She also served as a teaching assistant for the Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology class and a major advisor for the neuroscience program, experiences marking an early passion for education and mentorship.
She earned her MD from the Perelman School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and received the Henrietta and Jacob Lowenburg Prize in Pediatrics for her academic excellence and compassionate care. During medical school, Dr. Harowitz held numerous coaching roles as a peer tutor, clerkship mentor, and doctoring course facilitator. She was also heavily involved in Perelman School of Medicine admissions, interviewing countless PSOM applicants and gaining firsthand insight into how medical school admissions decisions are made.
Dr. Harowitz is now training as a double-board candidate in pediatrics and child neurology. She is a member of the Boston Children’s Academy for Teaching and Educational Innovation and Scholarship and teaches students at Harvard Medical School. She also has an active research background with peer-reviewed publications and national conference presentations in pediatric epilepsy, health disparities, telemedicine access, and neuropsychiatry. Dr. Harowitz has been published in journals such as Epilepsia, Spine, and Schizophrenia Research, and has presented posters at the American Epilepsy Society, Child Neurology Society, and the Association of Pediatric Program Directors.
What sets Dr. Harowitz apart as a coach is that she has both personal experience navigating medical school and residency admissions, and also an insider perspective from serving as an interviewer and member of the Penn Med admissions committee. She understands not only what worked for her but what has worked for a wide range of applicants with diverse backgrounds, interests, and challenges. She brings a strategic lens to application advising, helping students shape cohesive, compelling narratives that resonate with the values and priorities of their target programs.
Dr. Harowitz’s style is warm, approachable, and thoughtful. She is also a coach who knows when to push students beyond their comfort zones to help them realize their full potential. She believes that success in the application process is less about memorizing metrics and more about articulating one’s motivations, values, and goals with clarity and authenticity. Dr. Harowitz has a strong track record of academic excellence and leadership, with years of experience in teaching, advising, and supporting students at every stage of their medical journey. She is passionate about mentorship, equity in medical education, and helping students navigate medical school and residency admissions.
Dr. Jennifer T.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Talbott is an OB/GYN resident at Duke University. At the Mayo Clinic, she was elected national president-elect of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA), published seven peer-reviewed articles on women's health and medical education, and was interviewed by Reuters Health and ABC News for her curriculum on human trafficking for medical students.
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Dr. Jennifer T.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
OB/GYN, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Global Health
Education
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Talbott tutored a family in Hyde Park who lived down the street from the Obamas. She sometimes would see former President Barack Obama drive by in his motorcade!
Dr. Talbott is an OB/GYN resident at Duke University. At the Mayo Clinic, she was elected national president-elect of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA), published seven peer-reviewed articles on women's health and medical education, and was interviewed by Reuters Health and ABC News for her curriculum on human trafficking for medical students.
Originally from Ohio, Dr. Talbott graduated with honors from the University of Chicago with a degree in psychology and biology. Her path to medicine included serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay for two years, where she gained experience in community health outreach and public health.
Following her Peace Corps service, Dr. Talbott worked as a clinical research coordinator at the University of Washington, contributing to various projects in general and vascular surgery. This experience, combined with her international service, has given her over four years of domestic and international public health experience.
Dr. Talbott's passion for education and mentorship is evident in her role as an academic tutor for Mayo Clinic, where she led multiple lectures for medical board review courses and privately tutored students. To further her interests in service, advocacy, and education, she completed an MPH at Columbia University between her third and fourth years of medical school.
Dr. Talbott's interests include human trafficking awareness, medical education, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and global health. She is particularly interested in minimally invasive surgery within her chosen field of OB/GYN. Her language skills include ACTFL Advanced-High fluency certification in Spanish (oral and written), with over two years of working experience in Spanish-speaking environments.
As a first-generation medical student, Dr. Talbott brings a unique perspective to medical education and the application process. She has extensive experience mentoring pre-medical and medical students in various aspects of their careers, including research, academic writing, networking, and the medical school and residency application processes, including applying for scholarships. She enjoys helping students identify their passions and highlight their strengths to put together the best application package possible.
With her combination of academic excellence, global health experience, and commitment to advocacy and education, Dr. Jennifer Talbott is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the OB/GYN field and to continue her work in mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.
Dr. Joana A.
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
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Dr. Joana A.
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Opthamology
Education
Undergrad: Yale University
Medical School: Yale University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Andoh enjoys audiobooks, yoga, going to music festivals, tending to her plants, and making tea-infused syrups.
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
Dr. Andoh grew up in Illinois, attending the Phillips Exeter Academy. At Yale University, she was awarded the International Study Award and was named Student Marshal. During her time at the Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Andoh was awarded the Bay Area Ophthalmology Course Diversity Scholarship (BAOC), paying full tuition for a summer ophthalmology course at the Stanford Department of Ophthalmology. She also won 1st place for her poster through the Rabb-Venable Excellence in Ophthalmology Research Program. She also earned the Miriam Kathleen Dasey Award and Peter A.T. Grannum Prize.
An aspiring vitreoretinal surgeon, Dr. Andoh has published research on topics including diabetic retinopathy, carceral healthcare, and geographic disparities in access to care. Her work has been featured in the Journal of Ophthalmology, Journal of Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Journal of Correctional Healthcare, and JAMA, and has garnered over 100 citations. Her research and advocacy have earned her recognition from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Women in Ophthalmology, and the American Society of Retina Specialists, as well as multiple poster awards.
At the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, Dr. Andoh has been recognized with the Nicholas T. Iliff, MD, and Sharon A. Kress Excellence in Patient Care Award and House Staff Teaching Award. She was also named an MD Advocacy Education Fund Fellow.
Dr. Andoh has worked as a medical content writer and as a program manager for aspiring medical students. She also serves as a peer reviewer for JAMA and Nature Communications. She is excited to work with students and help them achieve their academic pursuits. With a structured yet flexible approach to counseling, Dr. Andoh offers the compassionate, friendly support students need to get into medical schools and match with their dream residency programs.
Dr. Joseph H.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
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Dr. Joseph H.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Auburn University
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Graduate School: University of Texas at Dallas
Fun Fact
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Hendrix demonstrates a commitment to global health through volunteer surgical missions with organizations like Solid Rock International and Health Volunteers Overseas.
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
Dr. Hendrix started his higher education journey by earning a BS in biomedical sciences from Auburn University. He earned an MD at the University of Michigan Medical School on a full merit scholarship, followed by residency training in anesthesiology and fellowships in pain medicine and cardiothoracic anesthesiology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He recently earned dual executive master's degrees in healthcare leadership and management from the University of Texas at Dallas, graduating as a scholar with high distinction.
His expertise spans clinical research, medical education, and healthcare quality improvement. He has held leadership positions at major institutions, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and has served on multiple national committees, including the Vascularized Composite Allograft Transplantation Committee for UNOS, and advisory roles with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Dr. Hendrix is board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine and holds numerous professional certifications, including Certified Physician Executive (CPE), Certified Principal Investigator (CPI), and Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ). His research has been published in leading medical journals, with significant contributions to understanding cardiovascular physiology, pain management, and perioperative care.
With 12+ years of coaching and mentoring experience, informed by eight years serving on admissions committees and as an interviewer at the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern. During his tenure, Dr. Hendrix reviewed 800+ applications and was involved in the decision-making process.
Dr. Hendrix remains active in medical education and serves as a mentor to the next generation of physicians while continuing to advance the fields of anesthesiology and pain medicine through research and clinical excellence.
Dr. Joseph K.
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
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Dr. Joseph K.
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Medical School: University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Knox has a passion for international travel and has been to over 30 countries.
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
Dr. Knox was raised in the Bay Area and graduated with honors from Northwestern University, majoring in biological sciences. During his time at Northwestern, Dr. Knox was actively involved in peer tutoring and bench research, culminating in the completion of an honors thesis. Following his graduation, he invested his skills in Alzheimer's research at the Gladstone Institute in San Francisco for two years before enrolling at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine.
In medical school, Dr. Knox continued to mentor and tutor undergraduate and medical students, and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He also completed a year-long fellowship during medical school to conduct multiple radiology research projects using semi-automated machine learning for the National Institutes of Health. He was awarded the Dean’s Prize for his research.
As a diagnostic radiology resident at UCSF, Dr. Knox displays a keen interest in academic radiology. He continues to mentor, serving as the resident liaison for the residency's Medical Student Teaching program. He has also served on the UCSF diagnostic radiology admissions committee as an application reviewer and interviewer. Additionally, Dr. Knox has tutored 50+ students and helped them succeed on their USMLE Step exams.
These personal and professional experiences have helped Dr. Knox develop a deep understanding of what top medical schools and residency programs seek in applicants, and he is eager to share his expert insights with students. He is passionate about coaching students and helping them maximize their potential as future medical professionals.
Dr. Joseph L.
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
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Dr. Joseph L.
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics & Infectious Disease
Education
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Fun Fact
Aside from reading Harry Potter to his son, Dr. Ladines-Lim enjoys fine dining, a good gin and tonic, running, and various podcasts.
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
Born in Baltimore, Dr. Ladines-Lim’s time at the Yale School of Medicine further solidified his passion for medicine and his desire to make a global impact. After medical school, he earned a PhD in chemical engineering before moving on to his residency training, where he acquired his own research funding for projects on antimicrobial resistance and gun safety in primary care.
Dr. Ladines-Lim has participated in projects on Zika exposure and neurodevelopmental sequelae in infants in Salvador, Brazil, and uptake of tuberculosis preventative therapy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He also worked for the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. As a resident at Michigan Medicine, he spearheaded several impactful projects, including antimicrobial stewardship in immigrant and refugee populations in Southeast Michigan and the use of ICD-10 codes to estimate rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in large datasets. His dedication to research and improving patient care is evident in his work, and he aims to continue making significant contributions to the field of adult infectious diseases.
When it comes to coaching, Dr. Ladines-Lim uses the "optimistic realist" approach. As a non-traditional applicant himself, he is keen on picking out the hidden strengths of every student’s application. Dr. Ladines-Lim adapts quickly when needed, ensuring that students stay on track while also allowing them to take the lead with his guidance. His advising style is approachable, creating a relaxed, conversational atmosphere where students feel supported. By balancing clear, goal-oriented planning with adaptability, he maximizes each advising session to help students build confidence and present their strongest applications.
Dr. Joshua A.
Weill Cornell Medical College
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
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Dr. Joshua A.
Weill Cornell Medical College
Interests and Specialization
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School:Weill Cornell Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Andjei enjoys recreational sports leagues, playing bass, and creative writing. He recently started a vinyl music collection, has a deep fascination with sea turtles, and is actively learning to salsa dance.
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
Dr. Andjei earned a degree in biomedical science with a focus on neuroscience from Cornell University before attending Weill Cornell. While in medical school, he played a pivotal role as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. This valuable experience sparked a keen interest in educational advising, mentorship, and academic support.
Prior to medical school, he honed these passions as an educational specialist for the New York Foundling, one of New York City's oldest and largest child welfare agencies. Dr. Andjei's dedication to education also led him to advise several undergraduate and medical students throughout their medical school and residency admissions processes.
In addition to his pursuits in education, Dr. Andjei actively contributes to the academic community as a reviewer for esteemed academic journals such as the Global Spine Journal and the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS). He also serves as a chief resident in orthopedic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Upon completion of his residency, he plans to extend his expertise further by pursuing a spine surgery fellowship at NYU.
Dr. Karam A.
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
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Dr. Karam A.
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Southern California
Medical School: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Ashouri is fluent in Arabic and Spanish. He enjoys exploring new technologies, organizing community health initiatives, and unwinding through outdoor activities like golf, snowboarding, and camping with friends and family.
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
Dr. Ashouri also served as an admissions coach at the USC Keck School of Medicine, where he facilitated interactive, case-based learning sessions that empowered medical students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. His background in admissions, coupled with his years of experience in MCAT tutoring, gives Dr. Ashouri keen insights into what top medical programs seek at every stage of the admissions process.
Before medical school, Dr. Ashouri volunteered as an EMT with Royal Ambulatory Services. He takes pride in contributing to community and service initiatives, including his work on a medical device design team and assisting volunteer populations through the International Rescue Committee.
Dr. Ashouri has published 17 manuscripts, primarily focusing on hematology and oncology. He has led influential studies on immunoglobulins and CXCL5 as biomarkers in immunotherapy-treated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), explored AXL and necroptosis signaling in colorectal cancer, and conducted research on acute lymphocytic leukemia, resulting in multiple first-author posters at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Ashouri’s work resulted in him receiving two ASCO Conquer Cancer Merit Awards. He has also presented findings on non-small cell lung cancer with the American Association for Cancer Research and regularly serves as a manuscript reviewer for several academic journals.
Throughout his training, Dr. Ashouri has demonstrated academic excellence, clinical leadership, and a strong commitment to impactful research. He uses his unique admissions and clinical experiences to coach students in crafting compelling narratives and excel in the admissions process. Known for his collaborative, student-centered approach, Dr. Ashouri is dedicated to helping future physicians pursue their goals with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Ashouri’s strengths as an admissions counselor stem from his diverse experiences in research, curriculum development, and medical school admissions. He quickly identifies each applicant’s strengths and weaknesses, providing focused, actionable feedback throughout the application process. By drawing on his deep involvement in academic medicine and his experience reviewing and interviewing candidates, he offers clear, individualized mentorship, helping every applicant uncover their unique story and present their best self. Students value Dr. Ashouri’s sharp insight, talent for clarifying complex topics, and ongoing support.
Dr. Ashouri’s wide-ranging experiences in research, teaching, clinical practice, and admissions give him a comprehensive understanding of what makes applicants stand out. He is committed to helping students uncover their unique path and present their most competitive selves in the medical school and residency application processes.
Dr. Katherine M.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
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Dr. Katherine M.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Education
Undergrad:California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Munoz played competitive softball for more than 10 years and still plays recreationally. She enjoys spending time reading, cooking, going to concerts, gardening, and training her doberman.
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.
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